Day 268

Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day.

Chapter 22, Paragraph 3.

“….But that it may be accepted, it is to be made in the Name of the Son,…”

Scripture Lookup

John 14:13,14

Reflection

All of humanity is called to pray to the true and living God. However, not all of humanity prays in a way that is acceptable to Him. How can we pray in a way that is pleasing to Him? How can we know that our prayers are accepted by Him?

True worship needs to be given through a mediator. Prayer, as a part of natural worship, is also to be given through a mediator. Only One being is capable of being a suitable go-between – Christ Jesus. Thus prayer needs to be directed through the name of Jesus Christ in order to be acceptable to God.

What does it mean to pray in the “Name of” Jesus? Thomas Vincent in his The Shorter Catechism Explained From Scripture wrote:

To pray unto God in the name of Christ, is not barely to mention the name of Christ with our lips in the conclusion, or any part of our prayers; but it is by faith to mention his name, depending upon Christ alone for admittance and access unto God in prayer, for acceptance, audience, and a gracious return unto our prayers.

When we pray in Jesus’ name, we are offering up our praise and petitions based upon the mediatorial work of Jesus. His authority, His place of honor at the right hand of the Father, and His intercession on His people’s behalf all ensure that prayers uttered in His name will be heard and accepted.

Questions to Consider

• Are you treating Jesus’ intercession lightly in your prayers? Are you even praying in the name of Jesus?