Theory question 112
Faith, Works and Impartiality(a) Relate the teaching of James on effective prayer. (b) Give four causes of unanswered prayers.
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(a) If anyone lacks wisdom, ask God who gives generously (James 1:5).
Ask in faith, without doubting; the double-minded will receive nothing (James 1:6-8).
You do not have because you do not ask; you ask wrongly to spend on your passions (James 4:2-3).
Anyone suffering should pray; anyone cheerful should sing praise (James 5:13).
The sick should call the elders to pray and anoint with oil; the prayer of faith saves the sick (James 5:14-15).
Confess sins to one another and pray for one another (James 5:16).
The prayer of a righteous man has great power, as Elijah's prayers stopped and brought rain (James 5:16-18).
(b) Any four: doubt/lack of faith; wrong motives; unconfessed sin; unforgiveness; pride; disobedience; quarrels and wrong relationships (1 Peter 3:7); not praying according to God's will.
Summarise James on prayer, then four causes.