Theory question 108
Faith, Works and ImpartialityOutline the teaching of James on prayer. Mention any four factors which may hinder the effectiveness of prayer.
Show the model answer
If any lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously without reproach (James 1:5).
He must ask in faith, with no doubting; the doubter is like a wave of the sea (James 1:6-8).
You do not have because you do not ask; you ask and do not receive because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions (James 4:2-3).
Is anyone suffering? let him pray; cheerful? let him sing praise (James 5:13).
Is anyone sick? call the elders to pray over him, anointing him with oil (James 5:14).
The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up; sins will be forgiven (James 5:15).
Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another (James 5:16).
The prayer of a righteous man has great power, like Elijah who prayed and it did not rain, then prayed and it rained (James 5:16-18).
Hindrances (any four): doubt or lack of faith; selfish motives; unconfessed sin; unforgiveness; pride; quarrelling with others; prayerlessness.
Summarise James 1:5-8, 4:2-3 and 5:13-18, then four hindrances.