1. The Christian and Public Worship (6) Prayer in Assembly

2. Our Best in Worship As in every aspect of our lives as Christians, God deserves our best efforts in our worship to Him Every act of worship must be done “in spirit and in truth” ( John 4:24 ) Thus far we have addressed the Lord’s Supper, giving and singing Today we address our prayer in the assembly

3. Prayer in our Assemblies Prayer is the avenue God has provided for us to speak to Him Prayer is an act of worship 1 Corinthians 14:15 Acts 2:42 Acts 4:24, 12:5 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Colossians 4:2-3

4. Praying in Truth In some ways public prayer is different from private prayers, in other ways it is the same. Public prayer should be addressed with the audience in mind Luke 11:1, “Lord, teach us to pray”

5. Praying in Truth Public prayers include: Begin with praise & thanksgiving – Philippians 4:6, Acts 4:24 Thanks for brethren – 2 Corinthians 9:14 Dealing with our sins – Acts 8:22, James 5:16 Praying for the sick – James 5:13-15

6. Praying in Truth Public prayers include: For all men, our leaders – 1 Timothy 2:1-3 For opportunities to reach the lost – 2 Thessalonians 3:1 Brethren with problems – Acts 12:4, Philippians 1:19 Brethren everywhere – 1 Thessalonians 5:25, Hebrews 13:18

7. Praying in Truth Public prayers include: Numerous different prayers offered in our services – most with a specific purpose. According to His will 1 John 5:14-15, Romans 8:27 In the name of Jesus – Colossians 3:17 1 Timothy 2:5

8. Praying in Spirit Proper attitudes include: Reverence for God – Matthew 6:9 Faith and sincerity – Matthew 7:7, James 5:15 Thanksgiving – Ephesians 5:20, 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

9. Praying in Spirit Proper attitudes include: Humility – Luke 18:9-14 With a forgiving spirit – Matthew 6:14-15 A desire to obey God and be put to work as needed

10. Preparing for Prayer The leader An important task. Leading the congregation in petitions to God Take it seriously Make preparation – practice, learn (If you pray privately that will help you) Writing down what you want to pray for is fine! SPEAK LOUDLY AND CLEARLY

11. Preparing for Prayer The leader Use words YOU and the audience understand Make it appropriate for the occasion and audience (not a time for personal issues or attacking others) Beware of repetition and flowery language. Think about often used phrases

12. Preparing for Prayer The leader Try to personalize your prayers each time. NOTE: Repetition is NOT wrong! But be cautious Above all be sincere – Romans 8:27 Be yourself in your prayers

13. Preparing for Prayer The listener Be reverential in demeanor Remove distractions Work to not let your mind wander – pray along with the leader in your mind If appropriate, say “Amen 1 Cor. 14:16

14. Are we giving God our very best as we worship Him?