Prayer

Matthew 21:13  He said to them, "It is written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you have made it a den of robbers."  (ESV)

In Jesus' day, temple worship had been turned into a money-making scam.  After tossing them out (apparently He had authority to do so), He quotes the prophet Isaiah who said God's house should be a house of Prayer to all nations (including foreigners).  Prayer is one of the key components of the New Testament church (Apostolic teaching, fellowship, prayer & praise - Acts 2:42, 47).  And the power of prayer (with faith) is the main point of Jesus teaching to the disciples that follows immediately (v. 20-22).

There is no temple in the New Testament, no sacred space, building or geographical location set aside (sanctified) for the worship of God.  We ourselves (believers) are the dwelling place of His Spirit.  So in His church (that's us) we ought to be regularly engaged in prayer - this key component of New Testament worship.  As Pastor Jeff said a couple of weeks ago - "Pray, pray, pray!"

Lord Jesus - its to You I pray.  Oh God my Father hear my prayer.  Holy Spirit make me a man of prayer - prayer without ceasing (1 Thes. 5:17).  Oh God, hear my prayer.  Make me, this sinner, a bible teacher - for Your glory, for Your kingdom, for Your people.

In Jesus' name - Amen,

                                   Son