Introduction:

1. Prayer is integral to Christian life both publicly and privately.

2. It is repeatedly prescribed in the NT (Luke 18:1; Romans 12:12; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).

3. It is also a key element of the assembly (1 Corinthians 14:14-17; 1 Timothy 2:1-8).

Discussion:

I. The Power of Prayer

A. Due to charismatic abuses, some have diminished faith in the power of prayer.

B. If we pray without expectation, we are double-minded (James 1:5-8).

C. God promises to answer our prayers in keeping with His will (Matthew 7:7-11; 1 John 5:14-15).

II. Principles for Public Prayer

A. Proper character and attitude of prayer leaders is pivotal (1 Timothy 2:8)

1. The men were to lead the congregation in prayer (vs. 8).

2. Holy hands indicate holy men (cf. Proverbs 6:16-19)

3. They must bear peaceful attitudes (vv. 2, 8).

B. The aim is salvation of all, even enemies (1 Timothy 2:1-6).

1. It is easy to pray for our close associates, but we must pray for all.

2. This includes strangers, enemies, officials (that we like or not), etc.

3. The aim is for harmony conducive to our work for the King.

III. Particulars of Public Prayer

A. Supplications= “a petition, request” (Strong); “an entreaty” (Thayer)

B. Prayers= general reference to petitioning God through Christ.

C. Intercessions= “to plead on behalf of another” (De Welt); Christ is our intercessor (Hebrews 7:25).

D. Thanksgivings highlight God’s mercies previously received.

IV. The Weight of the Responsibility

A. These principles highlight the weightiness of leading public prayer.

B. The prayer leader guides the congregation in petitioning God.

C. Asking God to incline His ear to us (2 Kings 19:16) is no small matter.

1. We must be ever mindful of the price paid to allow us to so approach the throne (Hebrews 4:14-16; 1 Timothy 2:4-5).

2. Hopefully, we walk away with deep appreciation for the privilege of prayer.