Does prayer really do anything...?

Does prayer really do anything...?

I think the above article clearly outlines what I was presenting on Sunday and during our bible study on Wednesday night. I confidently stand on the position that this paper expounds; and intend to root our minds, hearts and church practice in the truth it teaches. I feel this position is biblical, honors God's character and power and yet, holds the tension of man's role, responsibility and opportunity.

I am fully aware that this subject is fraught with abuses, misunderstandings, false teaching, especially from the those who come from a Word of Faith, hyper-charismatic or Pentecostal background. At the same time I know that those who have been raised in the Calvinist tradition can swing so far into the realms of Sovereignty that life starts sounding like a predetermined plan that looks like the theological errors of fate, destiny and the straightjacket of Islam and greek mythology. Some ideas about prayer can start sounding very Deistic: God wound up the world and is just watching it spin out on its own and we are simply along for the ride...victims of cold, calculated, pre-determinism. With all the opinions, experiences and church backgrounds in our circle; we are presented with a very real challenge to remain centered on the whole counsel of God and not swing to far to either side. That isn't just a safe view, but a healthy, biblical one...in my opinion.

I encourage all discussion, and hope we can all be humble, quick to listen, slow to speak, approachable, teachable and yet, always rooted in biblical truth; as we explore our way forward in regards to the rhythm and call to prayer as individuals and a church.