Prayer, in the church

The prayer life of the NT provides a pattern from which the modern church can learn, both in terms of the importance of prayer, and also matters for prayer.

Prayer was at the centre of the life of the early church

They prayed when they met together

Acts 1:14 See also Acts 2:42, Acts 4:23–31, Acts 12:12, Acts 20:36, Acts 21:5

With one accord they all continued in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.

They prayed about the selection and ordination of Christian leaders

Acts 13:2–3 See also Acts 1:24–25, Acts 6:6, Acts 14:23

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” And after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.

They prayed during persecution

Acts 12:5 See also Acts 7:59–60, Acts 12:12, Acts 16:22–25

So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was fervently praying to God for him.

They prayed for healing

Acts 9:40 See also Acts 28:7–8

Then Peter sent them all out of the room. He knelt down and prayed, and turning toward her body, he said, “Tabitha, get up!” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up.

The apostles' teaching on prayer in church life

The importance of prayer

Colossians 4:2 See also Romans 12:12; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; 1 Timothy 2:1; 1 Peter 4:7

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful,

Prayer for the spread of the gospel

Colossians 4:3–4 See also Ephesians 6:19–20; 2 Thessalonians 3:1

as you pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may declare it clearly, as I should.

Prayer for the sick

James 5:14

Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.

Prayer for sinners

1 John 5:16–17 See also James 5:16

If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he should ask God, who will give life to those who commit this kind of sin. There is a sin that leads to death; I am not saying he should ask regarding that sin. All unrighteousness is sin, yet there is sin that does not lead to death.

Prayer for God's servants

Romans 15:30 See also 2 Corinthians 1:11

Now I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me.

Orderly conduct of public prayer

1 Corinthians 11:4–5 See also 1 Corinthians 11:13–15

Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for it is just as if her head were shaved.

The practice of the apostles

Prayer was central to their ministry

Acts 6:3–4

Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will assign this responsibility to them and will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

They prayed for the church

Colossians 1:9–10 See also Ephesians 1:16–21, Ephesians 3:16–19; Philippians 1:9–11; Colossians 1:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:11–12

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,