How did Jesus teach us to pray?
Jesus taught His followers to pray to the Father directly, honestly and simply, and gave the Lord's Prayer as a pattern. Catholics and Protestants both pray it.
Jesus told His followers to pray to their Father in secret, who sees and hears them, and warned against piling up empty repeated words. The Lord's Prayer shows what to bring to God: honour His name, ask for His kingdom and will, daily needs, forgiveness, and protection from evil.
Scripture invites everyone to come to God directly through Jesus, with confidence. There are no special words to earn a hearing, and no go-between other than Christ. Talk to Him in your own words.
6But you, when you pray, enter into your inner room, and having shut your door, pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. 7In praying, don’t use vain repetitions as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their much speaking. 8Therefore don’t be like them, for your Father knows what things you need before you ask him. 9Pray like this: “‘Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. 10Let your Kingdom come. Let your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us today our daily bread. 12Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors. 13Bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the Kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Amen.’
Matthew 6:6-13 (WEB) · context
16Let’s therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace for help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16 (WEB) · context
5For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
1 Timothy 2:5 (WEB) · context
6In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
Philippians 4:6 (WEB) · context
The good news
Saved by grace, through faith, in Christ
Salvation is God's free gift to everyone who trusts Jesus Christ alone.