Page 46 - Pastoral Ministries -Student Textbook

Study Section 7: The Pastor Understands the Power of Prayer

7.1 Connect

Consider and meditate on these quotes about prayer:

"Our prayers may be awkward. Our attempts may be feeble. But since the power of prayer is in
the one who hears it and not in the one who says it, our prayers do make a difference." - Max
Lucado

"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing." - Martin Luther

"True prayer is neither a mere mental exercise nor a vocal performance. It is far deeper than that - it is spiritual
transaction with the Creator of Heaven and Earth." - Charles Spurgeon

"Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays." - Soren Kierkegaard

"The prayer offered to God in the morning during your quiet time is the key that unlocks the door of the day.
Any athlete knows that it is the start that ensures a good finish." - Adrian Rogers

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your
requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your
minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:6-7

An effective pastor is a man of prayer. Let’s learn more about a praying pastor ….

7.2 Objectives

1. The student should be able to describe the two different modes of prayer and why each is
important.

2. The student should be able to describe why church discipline is important and how it should be
done.

3. The student will review a code of ethics and should be personalized as a part of his leadership plan.

7.3 What is prayer?

Prayer is defined in simple terms as talking with God; it’s a direct hot line with heaven. God
wants us to communicate with Him, like a person-to-person phone call. It is a means of
communication that allows two or more people to interact, discuss, and respond to one
another. In the same way God has set prayer as a way of direct contact with Him whether
individually or corporately.

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