Thesis: The Lord's Prayer is part of the Sermon on the Mount, which Jesus
presented not as a moral guide, but to correct false teaching and Pharisaic living
and promote his Kingdom.
PRAYER DISPOSITION
* Prayer, like any "religious" activity, is an
expression of internal spirituality and not
an outward expression to gain man's favor.
* Prayer is bowing before eternal throne to
petition, intercede and praise the Only one
worthy of glory
* Jesus is the only mediator between man and
God - this is meaning of "in Jesus' name"
* Pray confidently, God knows our needs.
PRAYER PATTERN:
1. HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME
Put God's glory first
2. YOUR KINGDOM COME
God's dominion manifested
3. YOUR WILL BE DONE
eradicate unrighteousness
4. GIVE US OUR DAILY BREAD
recognize God's provision, our need for it.
5. FORGIVE US AS WE FORGIVE OTHERS
Remember need of grace, dispense to others
6. KEEP US FROM TEMPTATION
Remember inner vileness, need of God
7. DELIVER FROM EVIL
Protection against Satan's attacks
CONCLUSION: Doxology is fitting close to any prayer - that it is all about God -- his work, his provision, his authority, his dominion, his sovereignty over every circumstance. |
