James' teaching on effective prayer

JAMES TEACHING ON EFFECTIVE PRAYER                                                                                        

(JAMES 1:2- 8; 5: 13-18)

In his teachings on effective prayer, James taught that if anybody lacks wisdom, that person must ask (pray to) God who gives wisdom generously without reproaching.

James taught that whoever asks from God must ask in faith, not doubting because a person who doubts is like the wave of the sea, that is, driven and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.

James also taught that if anyone is suffering, that person should pray and if anyone is cheerful that person should sing praises.

He said if anyone is sick, that person should call the elders of the church to pray over him, to anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord and the prayer of faith would save him. He said the Lord will raise the person up and if he or she has any sins, the Lord will forgive them.

James told the members to confess their sins to one another and to pray for them to be healed.

James taught that the prayers of a righteous man has power and is effective. For example, he said the Prophet Elijah was a righteous man whose prayers were effective. He said Elijah was a man just like men of today but he prayed that the rains should cease for three years, six months and it was so. When he prayed again for rain, it came pouring on the earth, bringing back life.

How Can a Christian Pray Effectively?

1.         By praying without ceasing.

2.         By praying with humility.

3.         By praying with faith.

4.         By avoiding the use of empty words.          

5.         By denouncing sin among their ranks.

6.         By denouncing sin among their ranks

SAMPLE QUESTION(S)

1. a. Expound James teachings on the right attitude to prayers.

    b. List five things that motivate people to pray.

2. a. Expound James teaching on effective prayers.

    b. State three reasons why the prayers of some modern church are not answered by God.

3. a. Outline the teachings of James on prayer.

    b. Mention four factors which may hinder the effectiveness of prayer.

4. a. What is prayer?  List four types of prayer.

    b. Give four reasons why some people's prayer are not answered by God.

5. a. Relate the teachings of James on effective prayer.

    b. Give four causes of unanswered prayers.

ALSO READ:
James' teaching on impartiality

James' teaching on faith and works

<<Back to Home Page
Go to other topics in Christian Religious Studies>>
Go to the list of other subjects>>