Understanding the Significance of The Model Prayer in Matthew 6:5-14

Introduction

The Spirit revealed to me recently to start praying the model prayer, and from that, I added scriptures that connect, support, and relate to the verses in the model prayer that Jesus taught His disciples.

The Spirit also brought back to my remembrance about the prayer directive (instruction on how to pray) that I learned about in the mid nineteen eighties.

Let me give some history- Jesus and His disciples were under the old covenant, where the people added a certain word before God such as Mighty God, but they did not call or address Him Father. Still being under the old covenant, Jesus knew He was going away and once He died, and rose from the dead, a new and better covenant of Grace came to the Old Testaments saints, including the disciples and for us also. It’s amazing how Jesus taught them things to come.

Notice also that Jesus did not end the prayer with “In Jesus Name;” it was not necessary because He was physically with the disciples. Yet, after Jesus left the Holy Spirit came and we pray to our “Abba” Father (meaning being intimate with Him) in Jesus name. 

“Abba” is mentioned three times; Jesus addressed His Father (Mark 14:36); Paul used it twice (Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6), and in each case is followed by its Greek equivalent, which is translated "Father."

Many people do not realize that they have been praying incorrectly, this message is posted to reveal the importance of doing what Jesus told all His disciples to do. That’s why He told His original disciples and us the way to pray.

He also said the words below prior to the prayer:

And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 

But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions [repeated or practiced prayer] as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.

Therefore, do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray: The “Model Prayer”

Betty A. Burnett ~ burnettministries.org