The Christian And Prayer 2 Series

This is a MODEL prayer. Nowhere does the Bible infer that we are to pray a fixed or predetermined prayer. Prayer must be a matter of the heart and thus what I wish to pray may not correspond to your needs and vice versa. The prayer is set out to show us the manner and the matter that should be included in our prayers. Learning to pray is like learning to swim. You must practice. Lessons, however, might save your life when first learning to swim and conversely a few instructions on the matter of prayer were thought advisable by our Lord.

I. The Divine Aspect of our Petitions

A. Our Father

1. This shows both fatherhood and brotherhood.

a. God the Father is referred to as our Father.

b. Christ identifies himself with us when He says our Father.

Note: Prayer now takes on a new and different basis. It is now both possible and reasonable because it bears on the familiar relationship between Father and Son.

B. Hallowed be thy name (Revered)

1. This is recognition on our part of the holiness of God.

2. It also expresses our desire that the world would recognize that God is a holy God.

3. It would also be desirable if preachers and laymen of today would recognize that fact.

C. Thy kingdom come (Reign)

1. This shows that we believe in and adhere to the doctrine of the second coming of Christ.

2. It shows our desire for His soon return.

D. Thy will be done (Lordship)

1. In heaven the will of God is already carried out. And rebellion is dealt with rapidly and severely.

2. In earth –

a. We should always have the desire to obey the will of God in our lives.

b. We should desire that others are obedient to God in that first step of obedience – Salvation.

II. The Physical or Temporal Aspect of Prayer

A. Give us Bread

1. This bread is typical of all the elements required to sustain life on this earth.

2. It shows our utter dependence on God for our life and living.

3. It allows provision only for today. Tomorrow is another day.

III. The Moral and Spiritual Aspect of Prayer

A. Forgive us our debts (sins)

1. This reveals us guilty and in need of forgiveness.

2. This shows that only God can forgive sins.

3. This is talking about sins of the Christian for our forgiveness thru Christ was without any consideration on our part. It was fully and truly mercy.

4. This forgiveness is based on our treatment of others and thus is a matter of fellowship not sonship.

B. Lead us not into temptation

“Keep us from the power of the tempter”

1. This reveals our desire to avoid sin.

2. It shows our inability to resist sin.

3. Only the blind need to be led. If our eyes are open to spiritual sights, you will only be led in the paths of righteousness.

C. Deliver us from evil (evil one)

1. Keep us from the power of Satan.

2. Hedge us about with the love of God and the forces of evil will never break thru to destroy.

For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory forever. Amen