Why do we pray_ Class 5
Teachers
Lesson Summary
The class opened with a prayer of gratitude, then Pastor Dana Patterson reviewed Lesson 4 on the “prayer of faith,” citing James 5:15 and the story of Elijah to illustrate how faith can rise and fall. He highlighted that true faith in prayer involves believing God’s promises, remembering past blessings, and drawing strength from fellow believers, using examples like Manoah, Jacob, and Hannah. The focus then shifted to the types of prayer involving reflection and confession. Using Ecclesiastes 3:1‑2, Job 1, and Matthew 7:4‑5, Pastor Patterson encouraged the group to contemplate their life season, consider others, and assess spiritual well‑being. He connected this self‑examination to 1 Corinthians 11:27‑29, emphasizing the need for sincere hearts when partaking in the Lord’s Supper. The lesson concluded with practical applications for daily reflection, urging believers to pray for themselves, their families, the church, and those beyond the faith, thereby strengthening their prayer life and relationship with God.
Key Scriptures
if anyone is sick among you, let them call for the elders of the church; let them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise them up. And if they have committed any sins, they will be forgiven.