Prayer is frequently referred to as ‘talking to God.’ The very nature of the act makes it a very personal thing. It is something that every Christian should engage in several times throughout each day.
But there is also such a thing as ‘public prayer.’ We have reference to prayers that are made when we assemble together with other saints. Several passages in the book of Acts show that it was a common practice among first century Christians to join together in prayer (1:24; 4:31; 12:12; 20:36; 21:5). In these ‘public prayers’ it is obviously necessary for one to ‘lead’ or direct the thoughts of the entire congregation.
Here are some suggestions for the one who is leading in public prayer:
· It is especially important to speak so everyone can hear you. How can you ‘lead’ others if they cannot hear what you are saying?
· Someone has offered this good hint: speak so that a person in the farthest corner of the building could hear you – then everyone else will, too.
· Be sure that your prayers are directed to God the Father through Jesus (Col. 3:17).
· Public prayers do not necessarily have to be long. The model prayer, often called the Lord’s Prayer, has only 65 words (Matt 6:9-13).
· Remember the warning about praying to be “seen of men” (Matt. 6:5).
For others in the assembly:
· Remember that this is not a passive activity. While one is ‘leading’ in the prayer, you should also be actively praying to the Father.
· After the prayer has concluded, it is entirely appropriate and scriptural for the other men to add their “Amen” (1 Cor. 14:16). Doing so indicates agreement with that which has been prayed. We very much encourage this Biblical practice!
– by Greg Gwin