When we pray for the forgiveness of our [73] sins, on what condition will it be granted? Matt. vi: 14, 15. Is this forgiveness the formal declaration to the offender that you forgive him, or is it the freeing of your heart from resentment? On what condition are we required to formally forgive an offender? Lu. xvii: 4. In what case, then, is forgiveness a condition of the answer of prayer?

      Repeat the parable of the unjust judge. Lu. xviii: 1-8. What did Jesus mean to teach by this parable? 1. Suppose that we should conclude that what we are praying for is not according to God's will; should we continue praying for it? But if we believe it is according to his will, and if we desire it for a right purpose, yet after praying for a time, we do not obtain it, what should we do? Is prayer for the salvation of our friends an example of this? Give other examples.

      What does Jesus say about the proper place for private prayer? Matt. vi: 5, 6. If a man chooses a place for his private prayers where others can see him, what is the object? As this is the way that hypocrites do, how can you be sure that such a person is not a hypocrite? What sin does the Savior for guard us against by this precept? What do you think of the propriety of bowing down for secret prayer when you take your seat in a house of worship? What of the preacher's doing so when he enters the pulpit?

      After what manner does Jesus teach us to pray? Matt. vi: 9-13. Is this model prayer a long one? Are there any repetitions in it? Has it many high sounding words? How, then, should our prayers be in regard to [74] length, repetitions, and simplicity of speech?

      Is family prayer expressly named in the New Testament? Quote I Pe. iii: 7. What prayer would be hindered by husbands mistreating their wives? What does Paul say about where we should pray? I Tim. ii: 8. This clearly requires men to pray in every suitable place. How are fathers commanded to bring up their children? Eph. vi: 4. Can they do this well without leading the family in prayer? What, then, do you think is the duty of parents in this particular?

      What is one of the objects of public prayer? I Cor. xiv: 14-17; 26. Should any one be invited to pray, then, who cannot pray to edification? Who is to be the judge, the person himself, or the brethren? How are they to learn whether he can pray to edification?

      As we are required to pray in faith, can an unbeliever offer an acceptable prayer? As it is the prayer of a righteous man that availeth much, will the prayer of a wicked man avail? Can a sinner expect his prayers to be heard while he refuses to obey God?

[FBL 73-75]