Did Jesus Pray and Teach Prayer in the Bible?

Within the teachings and accounts found in the Bible, Jesus is portrayed as a regular pray-er and an advocate for prayer in the lives of his disciples. Jesus taught his disciples the importance of prayer and even modeled prayer in his own actions.

Jesus Describes Prayer as a Familiar Relationship with God

Before delving into the various instances of Jesus praying, it is important to understand His message about prayer. In Matthew 6:8, Jesus encourages his disciples and followers to trust in their Heavenly Father who knows their needs even before they ask. This connection between God and his people is based on trust and the understanding that one's Father in Heaven already desires to provide for them. As Jesus said, His Father 'knows what things you have need of before you ask Him' (Matthew 6:8).

Jesus Encourages Pray-ering from the Heart

In Matthew 6:9, Jesus provides a pattern for praying:

“And pray this way: Our Father in heaven, may Your name be hallowed, Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” (KJV)

This pattern or 'Lord's Prayer' underscores the authenticity and depth of prayer - it is an expression of a personal, heart-to-heart relationship with God.

Prayer Closet References in Biblical Accounts

One peculiar insight from biblical accounts is the specific mention of a prayer closet, or a personal, isolated space for prayer. In the Bible, Jesus is described as often retreating to a quiet, isolated place for prayer. This practice of praying alone, often in a 'closet', was not unique to Jesus, but He certainly encouraged His followers to do the same. Another historical example mentioned is Tsar Ivan IV, also called Tsar Terrible, who would spend 2000 bow downs daily in his prayer closet under guard. Just as Tsar Ivan, Jesus worshipped in secret and solitude, and this aspect is worth noting for its spiritual symbolism and practical implications.

Multiple Instances of Jesus' Own Prayers

Jesus prayed numerous times, but some of the most notable instances are recorded in the Bible. These instances show Jesus praying in different settings and situations:

Mark 1:35: Jesus would rise early in the morning and go to an isolated place to pray. This shows His consistent practice of setting aside time for His relationship with God. Luke 5:16: Jesus would retreat to desolate places and pray, in line with Mark 1:35. Luke 6:12: Jesus went to a mountain to pray and continued all night long. This detail emphasizes the length and depth of His prayers. Luke 22:42: During His prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed fervently for God's will to be done, despite His own desires. This particular prayer, often cited, exemplifies Jesus' unwavering commitment to God's plan. Mark 6:46: Jesus would go up to the mountain to pray, emphasizing His solitary practices. Mark 13:32: Jesus notes that no one, not even the angels or His own Son, knows the hour of His return, except the Father alone. This underlines the mystery and intimacy of His relationship with God. Matthew 14:23: Jesus would go to a place alone, leave before the crowds, and pray, symbolizing His need for solitude and personal communion with His Father. Matthew 24:36: Again, Jesus reminds that the timing of His return is known only to the Father, highlighting the exclusive nature of His relationship with God. Matthew 26:39: Jesus, in Gethsemane, prays to His Father for the cup to pass from Him, but is ultimate not to His will but to the Father's will. This instance shows the depth of His intimacy with God and His willingness to submit to God's will.

Conclusion and Takeaways

Through the biblical accounts, it is evident that Jesus not only prayed but also encouraged prayer among His followers. The practice of retreating to a prayer closet or isolated place for reflection and communion with God was a regular part of Jesus' life and ministry. By studying these instances, one can gain insight into the importance of prayer in the life of a disciple and the unique relationship Jesus had with His Father, which served as the foundation for His teachings on prayer.