Topical Encyclopedia Social and family prayer holds a significant place within the Christian tradition, serving as a means through which believers collectively seek God's presence, guidance, and intervention. The Bible provides numerous assurances that God hears and responds to the prayers of His people, both in communal and familial settings.Biblical Foundations The practice of social and family prayer is deeply rooted in Scripture, where the promise of answered prayer is a recurring theme. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself emphasizes the power of collective prayer. In Matthew 18:19-20 , He states, "Again, I tell you truly that if two of you on the earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them." This passage underscores the assurance that God is present and responsive when believers unite in prayer. The early church exemplified the practice of social prayer, as seen in Acts 1:14 , where the disciples "all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers." This collective devotion to prayer was foundational to the early Christian community, demonstrating their reliance on God's promises. Family Prayer The Bible also highlights the importance of prayer within the family unit. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7 , God commands the Israelites, "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This instruction implies a lifestyle of prayer and devotion within the family, fostering an environment where God's promises can be sought and experienced together. The promise of answered prayer within the family context is further illustrated in the account of Cornelius in Acts 10. Cornelius, a devout man who feared God with all his household, received a vision from God as a result of his prayers and almsgiving. Acts 10:4 records the angel's message to him: "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have ascended as a memorial offering before God." This narrative highlights the impact of a family's collective devotion and the assurance of divine response. Conditions for Answered Prayer While the Bible promises answers to social and family prayers, it also outlines certain conditions. Faith is a crucial component, as seen in James 1:6-7 : "But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not expect to receive anything from the Lord." Additionally, prayers should align with God's will, as 1 John 5:14-15 states, "And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we already possess what we have asked of Him." Examples of Answered Social and Family Prayers Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of God answering the prayers of groups and families. In 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah sought the Lord's help in prayer when faced with a vast army. God responded by delivering them from their enemies, demonstrating His faithfulness to answer collective prayers. In the New Testament, the church's prayer for Peter's release from prison in Acts 12:5-17 is another powerful example. The believers gathered in prayer, and God miraculously freed Peter, affirming the promise that He answers the prayers of His people. Conclusion The promise of answers to social and family prayer is a profound assurance found throughout Scripture. As believers gather in unity, whether in a church setting or within the family, they can trust in God's faithfulness to hear and respond to their petitions, provided they pray in faith and according to His will. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 18:19Again I say to you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Privilege of Prayer The Power of Prayer in Relation to Outward Circumstances. Prayers Answered The Deepest Need of the Church Today is not for any Material or ... The Bereavements of the Christian Home. [A] And After. (xxx, xxxi, xxxix-Xliv. ) God and Mammon. Another Wonderful Record of 25. The Olivet Message. A Casket of Jewels Resources Questions about Prayer (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the purpose of prayer? | GotQuestions.org What is a prayer circle? | GotQuestions.org Prayer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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