A Biblical Theology of Prayer

Learning Objectives

• Understand what prayer is and why God invites His people to pray
• Survey key examples of prayer throughout the Old Testament, including the Psalms
• Study Jesus's own practice of prayer and His teaching on how to pray
• Examine corporate and intercessory prayer in Acts and the Epistles
• Address the question of persistent prayer and how Scripture speaks to unanswered prayer
• Build a practical, sustainable personal and family life of prayer

Syllabus

Overview

This course traces the theme of prayer across the whole of Scripture, from the patriarchs and Psalms through the life and teaching of Jesus and the practice of the early church, building a rich, biblically grounded foundation for a sustained life of prayer.

Reading Plan

Week 1: what prayer is and why we pray. Week 2: prayer in the Old Testament. Week 3: the Psalms as a prayer book. Week 4: Jesus's own life and teaching on prayer. Week 5: praying in Jesus's name and according to His will. Week 6: corporate and intercessory prayer in Acts and the Epistles. Week 7: persistent prayer and answered/unanswered prayer. Week 8: building a personal and family life of prayer.

Required Materials

A personal Bible in one of the following standard translations: ESV, NIV, NASB 1995, CSB, LSB, or NLT; a notebook or journal for reading notes and reflection.

Grading & Completion

Assessment focuses on engagement with Scripture and demonstration of comprehension. Students complete weekly reading assignments and a short weekly quiz covering that week's material. A final exam covering the entire course is available once every week has been passed.

Course Outcomes

• Upon completion, students will be able to trace the theme of prayer across both Testaments
• Upon completion, students will be able to articulate Jesus's teaching and example on prayer
• Upon completion, students will be able to build and sustain a biblically grounded personal prayer life