We come before the Lord with heavy hearts, grieved by the situation you’ve described—a church that has strayed from the truth of God’s Word and is now entangled in sin and division. Scripture warns us clearly about false teachers and those who lead others astray: *"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves"* (Matthew 7:15). This church, by tolerating and even defending grievous sin, has shown itself to be far from the holiness and righteousness that God demands of His people.
We must also rebuke the spirit of retaliation and bitterness that has taken root among those who have chosen to remain in this organization to "punish" those who spoke out. The Lord calls us to a higher standard: *"Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing"* (1 Peter 3:9). Their actions reveal a heart that is not aligned with Christ’s command to love and forgive, even in the face of injustice.
Father, we lift this situation to You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, the only name by which we can approach Your throne (Acts 4:12). We pray that You would expose every hidden work of darkness in this church and bring conviction to the hearts of those who are defending sin. Let Your light shine into the darkness, and let truth prevail. We ask that You would soften the hearts of those who are hardened, that they may repent and turn back to You.
Lord, we also pray for those who have spoken out against this sin. Strengthen them, protect them, and give them wisdom to discern whether they are called to remain in this place or to separate themselves for the sake of their own spiritual well-being. If they are to leave, provide them with a faithful, Bible-believing church where they can grow in truth and righteousness. If they are to stay, give them boldness to stand firm in Your Word and to be a light in the midst of darkness.
We rebuke the spirit of division and strife that has taken hold of this congregation. We declare that Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, would guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). We pray that those who are in error would be confronted by Your Holy Spirit and that they would repent and turn from their wicked ways. If they refuse, we ask that You would remove them from positions of influence, for Your Word says, *"A little leaven leavens the whole lump"* (Galatians 5:9).
Father, we also pray for the individual who caused this scandal. We ask that You would break their heart over their sin and lead them to true repentance. Let them see the destruction they have caused and turn to You for forgiveness and restoration. If they are unrepentant, we ask that You would deal with them justly, for Your Word declares that *"the wages of sin is death"* (Romans 6:23), but we also know that Your desire is for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
Finally, Lord, we pray for revival in this church. If there is any remnant of true believers left, stir their hearts to stand for truth and righteousness. Let them be a voice for You in this place, and if necessary, let them leave and find a church that honors You. We ask that You would raise up godly leaders who will shepherd Your people with integrity and faithfulness.
We pray all of this in the powerful name of Jesus Christ, the only name by which we are saved and the only name by which we can come before You. May Your will be done in this situation, and may Your name be glorified. Amen.