Study in Prayer - Dana Patterson - 12-2-2020
Teachers
Lesson Summary
The class focused on the importance of corporate prayer, emphasizing that prayer is not solely a private activity but a communal act of worship. The teacher highlighted the contrast between the Pharisee’s self-righteous attitude and the publican’s humble plea in Luke 18:13-14, using this parable to underscore the necessity of humility in prayer. The lesson explained that God responds to prayers offered with sincerity and reverence, but those driven by pride or improper motives may be rejected. The teacher also addressed the common fear of public prayer, linking it to glossophobia, and provided practical strategies for overcoming anxiety, such as thorough preparation, positive mindset, and trusting in God’s acceptance. By applying these principles, believers can approach corporate prayer with confidence and authenticity, honoring God’s desire for heartfelt worship.
Key Scriptures
And He spoke this parable to certain ones who were confident of their own righteousness and regarded others with contempt: "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed about himself in this way: 'God, I thank You that I am not like the rest of mankind—corrupt, extortioners, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I tithe all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, just began beating his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."