7 And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9 In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.10 Your kingdom come.Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Matthew 6:7-15
Q & A：
- Do you know to whom we pray? What name do you use to refer to Him? How does understanding that prayer is a conversation between God and us help us learn how to pray? Share the identity through which we can boldly come into the presence of God without reservation. （Matt 6:9; Heb 4:16; 1Tim 2:5; John 1:12）
- How do you understand Matthew 6:12? Share your experience of forgiveness, whether it is from God to you or from you to others. Describe the steps to forgiving and forgetting the sin/hurt that others have done to us. （Matt 6:12,14-15; Heb 8:12; Isa 53: 3-5）
- What Scriptures have you found helpful in resisting temptation? Why are they helpful to you? Share how we can rely on the Holy Spirit through prayer and faith to overcome temptation. （ Matt 6:13a; Heb 4:15-16; Jam 1:13-14; 1 Cor 10:13）
Summary：
This week’s sermon continues to portray the importance of Christians using the Lord’s Prayer as a guide to pray. In terms of what Jesus prayed, the Lord’s Prayer defines our relationship with the Triune God. In such a relationship, we can come to God boldly and without fear or reservation. In God’s presence, we can rely on Him to forgive and let go of all the hurts in the past; that is not easy, but when we rely on God, all things become possible. The sermon encouraged us to continue to trust in God’s authority and power, to live in Him and for Him and His glory.