Previously, I wrote an article about prayer in which I concentrated on our private prayer life, including how we might pray in a prayer meeting. I now want to talk about when we are called upon to lead a congregation in prayer – in other words, public prayer.
This might be in a service of worship on the Lord’s Day, but it might also be at other meetings such as a funeral, a church Bible study, or a church members’ meeting. It is a wonderful privilege to be asked to lead a congregation of people in prayer. But it is also a great responsibility. Why?
On behalf of others
First, it is because you are praying on behalf of others – you are leading them in prayer. You are not just praying for yourself. As Stuart Olyott observes in his helpful little book, Reading the Bible and Praying in Public, public prayer is public!
You need to pray in such a way that the people can understand what you are saying, follow what you are saying, and therefore say an honest and genuine ‘amen’ at the end. Public prayer should therefore take into account the age and knowledge of those present.
Are there many young people new in the faith? Then our public prayer should reflect this both in the content and the length. A prayer at a Sunday school meeting should be different from a prayer at a normal Sunday service.
Are there many unbelievers present? Then our public prayer should reflect this as well, highlighting gospel themes such as the holiness and love of God, the sinfulness of man, and the saving power of Christ. This is especially important at funerals.
— This article continues for ET members
