Study of Prayer - Dana Patterson - 12-9-2020

Teachers

Dana Patterson Teacher

Clint Davison Preacher

Larry Johnson Teacher

Lesson Summary

Dana Patterson taught a comprehensive lesson on conditions for acceptable prayer and the prayer of a righteous person, drawing primarily from James 5:16. The class reviewed previous teachings on public prayer, emphasizing the importance of humility, proper attitude, and good delivery when leading congregational prayer. The teacher then pivoted to exploring what makes prayer effective, examining James 5:16 through multiple Bible translations to understand the phrase "effectual fervent prayer." Different translations emphasize various aspects: the ESV highlights power, the NIV emphasizes effectiveness, and the NASB stresses intentional effort and accomplishment. The core discussion centered on what influences God in prayer—not through bribery or coercion, but through factors like having a right heart, proper attitude, understanding God's will, obedience, and alignment of our will with His. The class examined Micah 6:6-8, which contrasts external religious offerings with what God truly desires: justice, mercy, and humility. Through discussion of biblical examples like Balaam and Moses, the group explored how a proper perspective of God's sovereignty and authority shapes effective prayer. The lesson concluded that God is influenced by righteous prayer, obedience, and intercession on behalf of others, affirming that God actively responds to faithful believers who pray with genuine fervency and right motives.

Key Scriptures