The Christian and Public Worship (6)

Prayer in Assembly

Our Best in Worship• As in every aspect of our lives as

Christians, God deserves our best efforts in our worship to Him

• Every act of worship must be done “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24)

• Thus far we have addressed the Lord’s Supper, giving and singing

• Today we address our prayer in the assembly

Prayer in our Assemblies• Prayer is the avenue God has

provided for us to speak to Him

• Prayer is an act of worship•1 Corinthians 14:15•Acts 2:42•Acts 4:24, 12:5•1 Corinthians 11:23-26• Colossians 4:2-3

Praying in Truth• In some ways public prayer is

different from private prayers, in other ways it is the same.

• Public prayer should be addressed with the audience in mind

•Luke 11:1, “Lord, teach us to pray”

Praying in Truth• Public prayers include:• Begin with praise & thanksgiving

– Philippians 4:6, Acts 4:24

• Thanks for brethren – 2 Corinthians 9:14

• Dealing with our sins – Acts 8:22, James 5:16

• Praying for the sick – James 5:13-15

Praying in Truth• Public prayers include:• For all men, our leaders –

1 Timothy 2:1-3• For opportunities to reach the lost –

2 Thessalonians 3:1• Brethren with problems – Acts

12:4, Philippians 1:19• Brethren everywhere –

1 Thessalonians 5:25, Hebrews 13:18

Praying in Truth• Public prayers include:• Numerous different prayers

offered in our services – most with a specific purpose.

• According to His will 1 John 5:14-15, Romans 8:27

• In the name of Jesus – Colossians 3:171 Timothy 2:5

Praying in Spirit• Proper attitudes include:• Reverence for God – Matthew 6:9

• Faith and sincerity – Matthew 7:7, James 5:15

• Thanksgiving – Ephesians 5:20, 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

Praying in Spirit• Proper attitudes include:

• Humility – Luke 18:9-14• With a forgiving spirit – Matthew 6:14-15

• A desire to obey God and be put to work as needed

Preparing for Prayer• The leader• An important task. Leading the

congregation in petitions to God• Take it seriously• Make preparation – practice, learn

(If you pray privately that will help you)Writing down what you want to pray for is fine!

•SPEAK LOUDLY AND CLEARLY

Preparing for Prayer• The leader• Use words YOU and the

audience understand• Make it appropriate for the

occasion and audience (not a time for personal issues or attacking others)

• Beware of repetition and flowery language. Think about often used phrases

Preparing for Prayer• The leader• Try to personalize your prayers

each time. NOTE: Repetition is NOT wrong! But be cautious

• Above all be sincere – Romans 8:27

• Be yourself in your prayers

Preparing for Prayer• The listener• Be reverential in demeanor• Remove distractions• Work to not let your mind

wander – pray along with the leader in your mind

• If appropriate, say “Amen 1 Cor. 14:16

Are we giving God our very best as

we worship Him?