Christian Living

Traditional Perspective

by paul hoffmaster
09/01/26
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For many years the Christian community has taken Scriptural concepts and made them irrevocable traditions.  One such endeavor has been elevating Jesus’ instructional, or tutorial, prayer called “The Lord’s Prayer.”  Upon careful and prayerful consideration, one discovers that Jesus did not actually pray that prayer, but used it as a prototype for those who did not know how to pray.

During a teaching session, known as the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructed them on how to pray.  This model prayer is recorded in Matthew 6: 9-13.  It was ironic that in less than 2 years, the same Disciples would ask Jesus to teach them how to pray. (Luke 11: 1)  They heard His teaching on the subject before, but it seems they did not practice what they were taught.

The instruction on prayer was basically a simple outline on how to talk to God.  If followed, it would cover the general definition of prayer, at least up to the Cross.  The pattern was to: 1) Center on God and His Holiness.  2)  Exhibit the Heavenly Kingdom on earth.  3)  Meeting their physical needs. 4) Forgiveness, vertically and horizontally.  5)  Asking that they would not have to face the trying of their faith through temptations. 5) Protection from Satan (Mentioned only in Matthew’s account)

The Disciples Prayer, traditionally known as the Lord’s Prayer, is a foundational prayer that helps the new Believer enter the realm of Heavenly communication.  As one becomes more acquainted with the ingredients of prayer, he does not need tutorial assistance.  He is free to express his thoughts and petitions before God.  From the borders of the prayer pattern to the open spaces of God consciousness, one travels by faith.  Our Father becomes my Father, and the freedom to approach Him is unlimited.

The Lord’s Prayer is located in John 17.   As one reads this prayer, we see Him immersed in an intimate relationship with His Father.  Jesus prayed as if He had already finished the task that was set before Him. (John 17: 4)  He had yet to be crucified, yet He saw Himself approaching the Throne of God. (John 17:5) He was anticipating His homecoming, where He would assume His position at the right hand of God.  In this prayer, Jesus defined Eternal Life as knowing “…the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” (John 17:3)  Many Christians look for a place to land for eternity, and there is definitely a place of residency, but the reality of Eternal Life is more than a place; it is a relationship. 

The majority of Jesus’ prayer was for His Disciples.  He prayed for the unity of the Disciples and those who would be converted through their ministry.   Jesus’s reunion was fast approaching. He would be reunited with His Heavenly Father, and the Glory He once had would be restored.  Yet it was the love for His Disciples that brought His prayer into reality.

May our Christian traditions be based on Scriptural accuracy and not on concepts.