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The Model Prayer (Part One): Introduction
Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughPrayer holds a central place in the spiritual life revealed through Scripture, and Jesus Christ offers profound guidance on this practice. During His time, prayer had often become a public display of hypocrisy or rote memorization, leaving His disciples uncertain about the proper approach. When asked to teach them how to pray, He provides a model, not for mindless recitation, but as an outline for deeper, personal communication with the Father in heaven. Jesus sets a powerful example of frequent prayer, often retreating to private places in the wilderness or rising early before dawn to commune with His Father. Before significant decisions, He would pray through the night, demonstrating the importance of seeking divine guidance. He instructs His disciples to pray always, making it a consistent part of their worship, and encourages them to ask the Father in His name for their needs, assuring them that their joy will be full through such direct access. He also offers specific advice against the insincere practices of the time, warning His disciples not to pray publicly for human approval or to use vain repetitions. Instead, He urges them to find a private place for genuine, one-on-one conversations with God, speaking reverently to a real Person who desires a true relationship, rather than treating Him as an unhearing idol. In His model prayer, Jesus presents broad principles to guide daily communication with God. He emphasizes that prayer should focus primarily on the Father, beginning and ending with praise and honor for His holiness and power, acknowledging Him as the Almighty Sovereign. He highlights the Kingdom of God as a central theme, urging disciples to keep it top of mind as they align with God's purpose for humanity. Personal needs, such as daily sustenance, forgiveness, and help against trials and satan's opposition, are placed in the middle of the prayer, recognizing human frailty and the constant need for physical and spiritual support. While this model does not cover every situation, it establishes priorities—God Himself, His Kingdom, and doing His will—ensuring that prayers grow in spiritual maturity and reflect a life representing the Savior before the world.
Prayer Makes a Difference
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod expects us to intercede in behalf of others, but we must do this with wisdom, sincerity, and humility, with the help of God's Spirit, according to God's will.
Jesus Wept
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingJesus' tears resulted from frustration at the lack of faith in those with whom He had closely counseled and for whom He had deep empathy (Mary and Martha).
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.
Four Views of Christ (Part 5)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLuke's gospel portrays Christ as the son of man, the high priest of man, and the savior of man, having all the feelings, compassions, and aspirations of man.
Should We Pray for the World?
'Ready Answer' by StaffSome believe that we should not pray for those in the world because of a few verses in Jeremiah. However, the bulk of the Bible shows just the opposite!
Teach Us To Pray! (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPrayer should be a major practice in our life and bring us into contact with God's creative purpose, indicating to Him that we will yield to His purpose.
'All Mine Are Yours!'
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsChrist prays for us as He did for His original disciples because we, too, have been called by the Father. Christ values us because the Father values us.
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 Father-Son Relationship (Part One)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Father is the source of everything and the Son is the channel through which He carries out His purpose. Jesus declared that the Father is superior to Him.
Teach Us To Pray! (Part One)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsA righteous life needs frequent times of prayer or communication with God. In one sense, Jesus Christ's life was one continuous prayer.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Father and Son are separate; the Father is the source of all power, while the Son serves as the channel through which we interface with the Father.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Six)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Father and the Son are two distinct beings, not co-equal as the trinity doctrine proclaims, but with the Son deferring to the Father in all things.