Prayer or proclamation

Transforming the world in which God has place you pt 5
Matthew 6 :5-8
Introduction recap resolutions Pepe Rodriguez, translation Public prayer is tricky, it is easy to pray in church with everyone else, it is easy to pray in front of friends when you have tried it a few times, but in all prayer, public or private it is so hard to pray from the heart, to pray with faith, without fear and to really mean it. Jesus has some teaching for us on the subject!
I. condemnation
A. Jesus condemns their method
1. They stood in the synagogue (looking for prominence)
2. They stood on the street corners (plain view)
3. Jesus does not condemn standing in general as it was a common practice
B. Jesus condemns their manner
1. Impression- that they may be seen by men”- they were concerned with an impression
2. Impersonation- they were trying to vie the impression that they were spiritual and pious
3. Intention- they were trying to make it look like they were so earnest that they couldn’t wait
C. Jesus condemns their motive
1. Design- their end in view was to have the applause of men
2. Designation- Jesus calls them hypocrites
3. Denunciation- He says that they have their reward already, thus ruling out future reward
II. Caution
A. We should be aware of similarity
1. We like to condemn the hypocrites and Pharisees
2. It is possible for us to be exactly like them
3. we must examine our own hearts in the light of the word
B. We should be aware of selfishness
1.This is a subtle problem in prayer
2. It is contrary to the communion with God
C. We should be aware of style
1. There is too much worry on what we say and how we say it before others
2. Time can also become too important for us
III. Correction
A. Jesus commends secrecy (v6)
1.Meaning- go shut out other things (including the recognition of other people)
2. The cupboard and the closed door are attitudes of the heart and mind
B. Jesus commends sincerity (vv7, 8a)
1. Prohibition- don’t be like the pagans, the religious
2. Don’t babble, ie don’t repeat yourself, don’t say things without thinking! (Lord’s prayer can be abused in this way)
3. Don’t be like them
a. either by doing what they do
b. Or by thinking you will be heard with more fancy talk
C. Jesus commends simplicity (v8b)
1. Remember the basic precondition- God knows all about your needs before you even get there, so he is much more concerned about your attitude in prayer
2. All the flashy accessories are not necessary at all
3. Prayer is a matter of friendship and fellowship between you and God
Conclusion
Nothing quite tests your spiritual life more than face to face time with God in prayer, it is a challenge and a risk to spend time alone with God, but are you up for it? How about this, 10 mins a day with god in prayer, sign up for an hour to be with God alone in the prayer room when we do our next 24 hour prayer room. Don’t let God pass by, new year, get serious with God, and you will see the world he has placed you in being transformed as he works through you. The job applicant, "morse code"may you……..