Faith: Individual Prayer vs. Collective Prayer

[eahaddix]

Is there any difference between individual prayer and collective prayer? Does collective prayer requests evidence a lack of faith, if God hears all individual prayers?

Now consider this question from another perspective: The Spirit (Romans 8:26-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:26-27;&version=31;)) and Christ Jesus (Romans 8:34 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208:34;&version=31;)) intercede on the behalf of believers, so why do believers require the intercession of fellow saints?

[CoreIssue]

I see individual prayers as being the norm in the NT. And we are told to do it it private so as to not do so for image.

But, I see when there is need, that leadership should pray for an individual requesting help.

Saint praying for saint remains individual prayer. But it is prayer done so with another in mind, be they saint or sinner.

Christ prayered on behalf of others. Leaders praying over a sick person are praying for others.

We are to care for others. We are to pray for our government.

To me, it is all individual prayer. Sometimes done for self need and some times done out of love and respect for others.

The Body of Christ is a collective working together. A family. Families care for each other.

Not sure if my meaning comes across clearly here, but if all just prayed and showed concern for self, that would be selfish.