3

Is public prayer biblical? Is it okay to pray in public?



    
    

Clarify Share Report Asked July 01 2013 Mini Anonymous (via GotQuestions)

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

11
Shea S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries
Public prayer is an issue that many Christians struggle with. Since many believers were known to pray in public in the Bible, as did Jesus Himself, there is nothing wrong with public prayer. Many O...

July 01 2013 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


5
Stringio Denise Law Supporter
We are encouraged by Paul to pray at all times with all kinds of prayer. 
God says we don't get because we don't ask. Pray is asking. 1 Thessalonians 17 & 18 Pray with out ceasing in every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 
Let your requests be known to God.
Philippians 4:6 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all He has done. If you do this you will experience God"s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand.

October 20 2014 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


2
Amybroker Amy Webster Supporter Mom, Attorney, evangelical teacher/chaplain, broker
Prayer is so much more than "asking". It is our primary means of communication with God. We certainly may ask God to intercede and guide us regarding those issues that weigh on our hearts and minds, such as for healing, peace, direction, etc. But in prayer, we can also learn from God, receive His instruction in and for our lives, thank Him for all the blessings He has given us, and above all, revere and praise Him. 

The first answer listed above, discussing public prayer, gives wonderful examples of prayers made publicly, with the proper ATTITUDE. Let us also consider 2 Chronicles 7:14. King Solomon had just completed the construction of the temple and the palace, and God came to Solomon and gave him instructions regarding their use. God told Solomon to use those places to honor Him, and specifically stated:

"...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place." (NIV)

This passage would seem to encourage public prayer. God was clearly calling for and encouraging public prayers and petitions of the people, and offering to heal their nation. But note that God requires us to be humble; the prayers are not a show.

If we pray together, as a nation: corporately, earnestly, publicly (and privately), and with humility and sincerity, not seeking material wealth or political gain, but genuinely seeking God, just as our nation and others have done in the past, then yes, God will hear our prayers and bless our nation.

June 16 2015 1 response Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining