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The Model Prayer (Part One): Introduction
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughPrayer is an intrinsic part of the religion revealed in Scripture, reflecting a deep connection between God's people and the Lord of all. Faithful men and women in the Old Testament humbly sought mercy and aid from the God of heaven and earth, communicating through a wide range of subjects, attitudes, circumstances, and styles. In Jesus' time, prayer had often become hypocritical public displays or memorized rote recitations, causing confusion among His disciples about how to pray. When asked, Jesus provided a model, not for mindless repetition, but as an outline for personal, deeper conversations with the Father in heaven. Jesus set an example of frequent prayer, often seeking private places in the wilderness or rising early before dawn to commune with His Father. Before significant decisions, He would pray all night, and He instructed His disciples to pray always, making it a consistent part of worship. He emphasized direct access to the Father, encouraging them to ask in His name for their needs, assuring them that their joy would be full through such requests. Jesus also advised His disciples to avoid the insincere practices of hypocrites who prayed publicly for human approval. Instead, He taught them to find private places for genuine, one-on-one conversations with God. He cautioned against vain repetitions, urging them to speak reverently and respectfully to God as a real Person who desires a true relationship, rather than treating Him as an unhearing idol. In His model prayer, Jesus offered broad principles to guide everyday prayers. He presented it as an outline for habitual use, focusing primarily on the Father Himself, with praise and honor acknowledging His holiness and power as the Almighty Sovereign. The prayer highlights the Kingdom of God as the ultimate goal, aligning with God's purpose for humanity, and urges cooperation in making it happen. Personal needs, including daily sustenance, forgiveness, and help against trials and satan's opposition, are placed centrally, recognizing human frailty and the need for constant physical and spiritual support. While not covering every situation, the model prioritizes God, His Kingdom, and doing His will, fostering spiritual maturity in prayer and life.
Prayer
Sermonette by James BeaubellePraying according to God's will means overriding our own desire, using forethought in our petitions, realizing that God's direction is steadier than our own.
Unanswered Prayer
Sermonette by James BeaubelleEven though we often must wait for a response, God listens closely to our prayers from the heart and is looking out for our best interests.
The Model Prayer (Part Two): Our Father in Heaven
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughJesus begins His instructions to His disciples about how to pray with, 'Our Father in heaven.' There is more to this simple salutation than meets the eye.
Do We Know God?
CGG Weekly by Pat HigginsHow can we build a relationship of such intimacy that God and Christ know it is a relationship that will last for an eternity?
Strategies for Escaping Babylon (Part Eight)
Sermon by David F. MaasThe most effective way to develop a relationship with God is by developing a continuous prayer dialogue, conversing with Him through Bible study and prayer.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe purpose of prayer is not to overcome God's reluctance, but to help in yielding to His will. 'Prayer changes things' is only true if it conforms to God's will.
When Will God Answer?
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod does not delay because of indifference, but wants to provide maximum opportunity for repenting, overcoming, and building character.
Thanks for Everything
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughWe should not confine the giving of thanks to a single day of the year, but express it continually—in fact, every time we come before God in prayer.
The Intercessory Character of Christ
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsJesus demonstrated the importance of intercessory prayer, a practice urged by Paul for spiritual siblings, family members, rulers, and even enemies.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSacrifices of thanksgiving, praise, and gratitude are required of God's called out priests. By meditating on the right things, we prepare ourselves for prayer.
Strategies for Interfacing with Babylon Without Becoming Assimilated (Part Six)
Sermon by David F. MaasWe must embrace failure as a tool for spiritual growth. Trials are essential in shaping character, building faith, and reinforcing dependence on God.
Humility
Sermonette by James BeaubelleHumility is not an obsequious act we turn on and off at will, but a sober reflection of our true relationship to God and our spiritual siblings.