James Teaching on Prayer James 1;2-28, 5;13-18

Back to: CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS STUDIES SS1

 

Welcome to class! 

In today’s class, we will be talking about  James teaching on prayer. Enjoy the class!

 James Teaching on Prayer

James taught that Christians should pray, believing God that HE would answer what they ask HIM no matter the situation. The writer of the Hebrews made this clear,

“For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us, therefore, come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16

Further, Christians must perceive that they must not doubt when they may not receive answers to their prayers immediately. The bible says in Hebrews 11:16 “Without faith, it is impossible to please God for whoever will draw nearer to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who diligently seek him” God’s silence is also an answer to Prayers. Believers must come to terms with this truth.

Another condition for effective prayers according to James is that Christians must not ask wrongly, that is they must ask according to the will of God with the right motive, Christians must confess their sins. According to him, heartfelt prayers of the righteous is very effective and produces great results.

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16

St. James also, cited the prophet Elijah to explain effective prayers,

“Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.” James 5:17

Factors that enhance answers to prayers

1. Belief (Faith)
2. Asking with right motives
3. Persistence
4. Humility
5. Forgiving spirit

Factors that hinder answers to prayers

1. Unbelief
2. Doubt
3. Sin
4. Pride
5. Unforgiving spirit

Types of prayers

There are different types of prayers that a believer can offer to God.

1. Prayers of thanksgiving
2. Prayers of forgiveness
3. Prayers of intercession
4. Prayers of supplication

Important points to know about Prayers

1. Salvation: this is the first requirement to access God through prayers. The only Prayer from a sinner that God responds to is the prayer of salvation through faith in Jesus.
2. No formula It is very important to state that there is no formula to prayers. God is willing to communicate with his children if they will be willing to respond by offering prayers.
3. No age limit: There are no age limits when it comes to prayers. Anyone can offer prayers without bias to the age.
4. Not specific environment: prayers can be said anywhere without regard to the geographic location.
5. No Specific time: it is good to have specific hours of prayers. This is to help us and not God. For he never sleeps and never slumbers. He is very attentive to the prayers of his children.
6. No intermediary: when it comes to the subject of prayers. We all have access to the father without the need to consult anyone. Ephesians 2:8,18.

Evaluation

Discuss the subject of prayers as taught by the apostle James.

Assignment

1. List and explain five limitations to effective prayers.
2. Is prayer restricted to a certain age? Discuss.
3. List ten characters in the scripture who prayed effectively.

 

In our next class, we will be talking about  Christian Living in the Community.  We hope you enjoyed the class.

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