I gave this lecture on March 22, 2025.
Giving Public Prayers
INTRODUCTION In Luke 11:1, Christ’s disciples request that He teach them how to pray as John the Baptist had taught his disciples. In response, He gives them the Model Prayer in the next few verses (also Matthew 6:9-13). The request assumes that either 1) the disciples themselves were ignorant of how to do it, or 2) that they recognized that the method of prayer they had been taught at home or by the example of the Pharisees was inadequate. Perhaps Jesus’ prayers made them realize this inadequacy.
We cannot assume everyone knows how to give a good prayer—especially a good public prayer, which contains elements that private, personal prayers do not. Good public prayers are aware that there is an audience listening in, an audience that wants, in unity, to agree with what is said before God. So, while the prayer is addressed to God, it is also addressed before an audience. Both expect to hear certain elements.
SPS Learning how to give an adequate public prayer is part of Speech Club and of leadership training in the church. I advise each member to read my Bible Study series on “The Model Prayer” to familiarize himself with what God expects of us in our private prayers. Our public prayers use it as a base. Done well, public prayers are a thorough request for God’s presence and help in the circumstance and focus attention on Him, giving him honor and praise. Most of all, God’s glory should always be our priority in prayer.
What a public prayer is NOT is the person praying. It is his voice and words, but they need to focus all attention on God, His holiness, goodness, glory, name, and mercy. We want our prayers to be memorable or helpful for their spotlight on God—not on ourselves, our eloquence, our voice. The less we think of ourselves, the better the prayer (reduces nervousness and removes cringeworthy self-centeredness).
How does one give a good public prayer?
First, we need to realize that a public prayer is a short speech. Public prayers should be brief—one or two minutes, and two minutes is pushing it. Any longer and the crowd begins to get restless. This means that our prayers should employ efficient language, avoiding nervous repetitions and following an ordered plan.
Second, its structure should be simple: Salutation to God, thanks for His blessings, requests for His presence, inspiration, and blessings “in Jesus’ name, amen.” On these occasions, the other elements of the Model Prayer are not necessary. Just remember: God’s glory is paramount. Focus attention on Him!
- Most opening prayers need little more than this. Occasionally, there is a special circumstance that would require expanding this simple structure beyond this, but if so, we should keep it brief.
- In closing prayers, mentioning the subjects of the sermonette and sermon is fine, but please do not reiterate them or add your own commentary! Speak in general terms and ask for God’s help in applying the instruction, but refrain from expanding on it or giving your own commentary. If the congregation will be eating after the service, you can also ask for His blessing on the food.
Third, address God sincerely, speak normally, and avoid being overly emotional, dramatic, or theatrical. Otherwise, we may be drawing attention to ourselves when the point is to glorify God. So, speak from the heart but with self-control and decorum.
Fourth, in Matthew 6:7, Jesus tells us to avoid vain repetitions. Try not to use “Father” or “Lord” or some other word or phrase (“um,” “uh,” “er,” “like,” etc.) as a filler in each sentence. Also, try not to give the same rehearsed, memorized, or rote prayer every time. After just a few times, a congregation knows when it hears the same thing. You can be a little creative without crossing the line and drawing too much attention to the self by being thoughtful, sincere, and in the moment.
Fifth, be considerate and ready. In church prayers, move forward to the stage as the hymn is ending and move to the microphone quickly when the song-leader calls you to it. Do not make the audience wait while you make a grand entrance. An attitude of humble service to God and the congregation is key.
CONCLUSION Giving a public prayer is a great honor and responsibility. Approach the task with humility and sincerity, remembering you are speaking to the awesome God of the universe, not for yourself but for the group. And you will do fine!