We continue our series looking at Jesus’ example of and teachings about prayer. Today we’ll focus on the power of prayer. Our Lord emphasized the need for us to pray in faith, the importance of prayer as we endeavour to overcome temptation and sin, and the value of prayer as we seek to not lose heart amidst trials and troubles in life. Let’s learn from the Lord.
In Matthew 6, Jesus provided His disciples with an example of prayer (v 9-13). Eventually in our series looking at prayer we will devote an article to looking at the Lord’s prayer as worded in Matthew 6. However, herein we want to examine the verses just preceding the prayer. In Matthew 6:5-8, Jesus gave several important principles which will help us to pray as we ought.
One of the many blessings experienced by the apostles during the days of Jesus’ earthly ministry was the opportunity to hear Him pray. In Luke 11:1, one of His disciples requested, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” In the immediate context, Jesus gave an example of prayer, what is typically dubbed “The Lord’s Prayer.” The request infers the disciple considered Jesus to be an expert, proficient in prayer. Indeed, there is no one more qualified to teach someone how to pray. He was their perfect example of prayer – He is our perfect example of prayer. Let us learn from Jesus’ prayer life.
Is believing in Jesus enough? Or is there more? Hear the words of Jesus:
…if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words has that which judges him – the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. (John 12:47-48)
The Lord came to reveal and call us to the truth. He said:
…if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to savve the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words has that which judges him – the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. (John 12:47-48)
God’s word is of exceptional value and benefit to the child of God. The Scripture says:
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)
…knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:20-21)
Paul wrote concerning the Bible:
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
Consider some details about the two covenants found in the Bible – the Old Testament given by Moses to Israel, and the New Testament given by Jesus for all the world.
