Why pray for the living?
Posted: Tue Apr 08, 2014 11:27 pm
Just as stated. I'm having a hard time seeing the point. It's Jesus that saves, the Holy Spirit that guides and intervenes and the Father that accepts.
Sure, as Christians we want to build each other up and exercise together as the body of Christ.. but what will praying for each other accomplish?
The Father knows what we need before we do, asking him to intervene (depending on the context) could be asking to go against free will. Lets say by praying for His revelation to a dear one.
And even if it didn't go against free will, he knows what others need already, and when. What would requesting Gods intervention even accomplish? Things will happen or they wont according to God's plan.
Perhaps my perspective is off...?
Also, how many end their prayers with 'through Jesus Christ, Amen'. Now I understand completely the reason for doing so as he intercedes with us to the Father and through him is our salvation and ability to go to the Father is possible. But is it necessary thing, or a respectful thing? Repeating through Jesus Christ over and over seems a bit... repetative in prayer which we are warned against? That and it can make prayer impersonal sometimes by adding a legal framework for prayer.
I talk to God, a lot. More than I talk to other people in a day sometimes and I like the personal relationship that has been growing. God deserves our respect, worship and love. But I really don't agree with the conservative view of God (I was raised Catholic). We are God's children, but I also look at God as a friend. A God to be adventuring with, joking with, exploring with.. just hanging out with in general and sharing great moments together (and sad ones). One of the most distrubing things that will enter my mind from time to time is I can't surprise God. Surprises are fun...
Any insight is welcome, thanks!
Sure, as Christians we want to build each other up and exercise together as the body of Christ.. but what will praying for each other accomplish?
The Father knows what we need before we do, asking him to intervene (depending on the context) could be asking to go against free will. Lets say by praying for His revelation to a dear one.
And even if it didn't go against free will, he knows what others need already, and when. What would requesting Gods intervention even accomplish? Things will happen or they wont according to God's plan.
Perhaps my perspective is off...?
Also, how many end their prayers with 'through Jesus Christ, Amen'. Now I understand completely the reason for doing so as he intercedes with us to the Father and through him is our salvation and ability to go to the Father is possible. But is it necessary thing, or a respectful thing? Repeating through Jesus Christ over and over seems a bit... repetative in prayer which we are warned against? That and it can make prayer impersonal sometimes by adding a legal framework for prayer.
I talk to God, a lot. More than I talk to other people in a day sometimes and I like the personal relationship that has been growing. God deserves our respect, worship and love. But I really don't agree with the conservative view of God (I was raised Catholic). We are God's children, but I also look at God as a friend. A God to be adventuring with, joking with, exploring with.. just hanging out with in general and sharing great moments together (and sad ones). One of the most distrubing things that will enter my mind from time to time is I can't surprise God. Surprises are fun...
Any insight is welcome, thanks!
