Bible Questions and Answers
Browse all the questions that have been asked at thisisyourbible.com and see their answers, read the most recent questions and answers, or have a look at some prepared questions and answers on key Bible themes.
What is the proper method of praying? Is there only one way to pray? If we pray hard enough, will we receive the Holy Spirit?
- Acts 6:1-6 The laying on of hands was a sign of ordination giving them the authority from the twelve apostles to oversee the daily distribution to the widows. Moses ordained Joshua in this manner. Numbers 27:18-20
- 1 Thessalonians 5:17,18 This is an exhortation to pray regularly, not to pray all the time, which is not possible. Daniel, for example, prayed regularly three times each day.
- 2 Timothy 3:15-17 The idea that we are to pray for the Holy Spirit to come upon us is a misunderstanding. The Holy Spirit gave the twelve apostles special powers at Pentecost. One of the powers they had was to give Holy Spirit gifts to baptised believers by the laying on of their hands. When the apostles died these gifts were no longer available. Holy Spirit gifts are not available today. There is no instruction in the New Testament to pray for the Holy Spirit to come upon us. The written word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, contains all the instruction we need to serve God. It is the written word which makes us ‘wise unto salvation’.
Jesus instructed his disciples what to pray for and how to pray:
- Luke 11:1-3
- Matthew 6:5-7
- Luke 6:28; James 5:16 We are commanded to pray for others
- 1 Timothy 2:1-8 We are to pray for those in authority.
May I suggest that you read Does God hear Prayer (please click on the title)
I hope you find this helpful.
God bless,
Glenn
