Westminster Larger Catechism (Q 178)

Dear Church Family,

This past Sunday, we resumed our weekly Sunday school lessons in the Westminster Larger Catechism (WLC) as we studied and discussed question 178. Here is a brief review.

We are in the final sections of the Larger Catechism in which we have been learning about the ordinary means of grace: the ministry of the Word, the sacraments, and prayer. Having studied the questions regarding the ministry of the Word (WLC 155-160), sacraments (161-177), we began our study of prayer in WLC 178 and the definition of prayer.

WLC 178  What is prayer?
A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God, in the name of Christ, by the help of his Spirit; with confession of our sins, and thankful acknowledgement of his mercies.

Simply put, prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God (Psalm 62:8). At the same time, the Scriptures teach us the appropriate way to pray and offer up the desires of our heart to the one true God: in the name of Christ and by the help of His Spirit (John 16:23; Romans 6:26).

Believers in Christ have two advocates who help us as we approach the throne of grace in prayer. First, “we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1). The same Greek word which is here translated as ‘Advocate’ is the word which Jesus uses to describe the Holy Spirit – variously translated as ‘Helper,’ ‘Counselor,’ or ‘Comforter’ (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7) – who indwells us and guides us into all truth.

It is a great comfort to the believer to know that even in our prayers, we are not left alone. As our perfect high priest in the heavenly Tabernacle, Jesus makes continual intercession for His people (Hebrews 7:23-27). And, even when we don’t know how we ought to pray, the Holy Spirit – who dwells in us – intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words according to the will of God (Romans 8:26-27).

Finally, our prayers ought to be accompanied by confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgement of God’s mercies (Psalm 32:5; Daniel 9:4; Philippians 4:6). The attitude with which we go to the Lord in prayer ought to be marked not by doubt, but by faith. The one who approaches God in doubt is double-minded and unstable who is easily tossed about (James 1:6-8), but the one who approaches God is faith knows that He works all things according to the counsel of His own will (Ephesians 1:11) and that our heavenly Father gives good gifts to those who ask Him (Matthew 7:11).

Conclusion

Our study of the definition of prayer included much discussion and sharing of personal experiences which was an encouragement to all who were present. I hope you will join us in the new year in our continuing study of the Westminster Larger Catechism!

The Lord be with you!
Pastor Peter M. Dietsch