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Model of Prayer
After this manner, therefore, pray ye: Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. (v. 9)
A model is a visual representation of something that is worth copying. Models are used to help learners understand a difficult concept; to explain the steps for completing a project; or to inspire observers to want to follow the model. There are business models, fashion models, and role models – just to name a few.
So why did the disciples ask for a model prayer? Did they need information or inspiration? Jesus did not ask. But He did give them what they requested. So how does this model prayer help us? Is it a magic formula that, if correctly followed, guarantees success? Hardly.
Perhaps Jesus knew that we needed confirmation that it is okay with God to ask Him for our daily needs. Perhaps He knew that we needed to be reminded that praise is a part of prayer; that worship opens the door to the throne room of God. Perhaps He wanted to remind us to think globally rather than just locally.
So here is the model prayer that Jesus gave. How will you use it today? Heartless ritual never brings us into the presence of God. But when we approach this model prayer with a learner’s heart we may find our prayer life revitalized. (Gordon Snider)
"Lord, teach us to pray!"
This devotional is the Monday, May 9, 2016 entry of Opening the Word.
Teaching is Preparing
Our lessons are designed with a wealth of material for the teacher. At the beginning of the lesson, we have a section devoted to a key word from the scripture. On the left side, you will find the scripture text and solid commentary that illuminates the Word. On the right is a discussion-oriented lesson plan that begins with the contemporary need to which this scripture speaks, the story of the text, exploration of the scripture, and application to our lives. At the end you will find a section devoted to key doctrines found in this lesson. Illustrations and quotes are also included.
With all these helps, it may be tempting not to spend time in preparation. However, it takes skill and preparation to know how to weave these elements together. Furthermore, while questions (and suggested answers) are provided, you should ask if these questions are the best, or if the answers need further development. In other words, be diligent in preparing to teach!
Christ, Our Intercessor
Lesson 11 - May 15, 2016
Focus Text: John 17:9-24
Central Truth: Christ intercedes with the Father for us.
Objective: By the end of this lesson my students should be able to state ways Christ's intercession gives them confidence for life.
Lesson Outline:
- Prayer for Preservation (John 17:1-16)
- Prayer for Sanctification (John 17:17-19)
- Prayer for Unification (John 17:20-26)
Prayer – Lesson 10, New Life in Christ
Heavenly Father,
Please bless our classes today as they discuss the abundant life Christ gives His followers. Help us to be careful to remain in the Vine and may we see a great harvest of spiritual fruit in our lives.
In Jesus' name.
Amen
Mother's Day Crafts
Check out these craft ideas that your children's Sunday school classes could make this Mother's Day!
What is the Christian's Identity?
In "Doctrinal Discussion" Randy Bland writes:
Our identity is given to us by God the Father, through the work of Jesus on the cross. We receive this work of salvation by grace through faith. The Father declares that we are righteous, but it can be hard for us to believe this when we are struggling with temptation. In spite of our struggles, however, God has declared that we are His children. Only repeated, willful sin can change that. When we learn to accept that God has accepted us in Jesus, we can move into a deeper walk with God.
Discussion: How does understanding our identity as Christians help us grow spiritually?
Source: Jesus, Son of God: Adult Teacher's Insights, page 63.