How Often Should You Say “IN THE NAME OF JESUS” in Prayer?
Christ taught that we are to pray to the heavenly Father in the famous prayer outline from Matthew 6:5-13. He likewise noted this principle in the gospel of John, adding that we are to pray in His name:
In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
The Lord also stressed this in John 15:16.
All of this reveals prayer protocol: We are to pray…
- to the Father
- in the name of the Son
- by the help & leading of the indwelling Holy Spirit (John 16:13 & Romans 8:14).
It might help to understand that, while the LORD is one (Deuteronomy 6:4 & Isaiah 45:5,6,18), there’s a tri-unity within that Oneness, which explains why Christ said “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” and “I and the Father are one” (John 14:9, John 12:45 & John 10:30).
If we are to pray in the name of Jesus Christ, why didn’t the Lord mention this when he taught the disciples how to pray in Matthew 6:5-13? Likely because he was talking about believers praying to the heavenly Father alone, as observed in verse 6 and verse 9.
In other words, when you are praying alone with God you don’t necessarily have to throw in “in the name of Jesus” because the LORD – who indwells you by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16 & Romans 8:9) – already knows you’re praying in Jesus’ name because you are in relationship, a core truth of Christianity.
Whilst Christ was referring to an ‘official’ prayer session with your Creator in Matthew 6:5-13, you can be in constant fellowship (communion, prayer) with the LORD throughout your day, even when you’re in bed (Psalm 63:6). Paul referred to this as “praying without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17 KJV) and the “fellowship of the Holy Spirit” (2 Corinthians 13:14).
I’ve learned to do this in my daily walk and it’s wonderful, adding warmth and a sense of communion to your solitary mundane activities throughout the day. This explains why Danny Chambers cries out “I’m never alone” in this song.
I’ll be doing something around the house or yard, or lying down, and say something like “I love you, Lord.” I bring this up to make a point. Wouldn’t it be silly for me to add “in the name of Jesus” every time I merely shared something with the LORD in the course of my day? For instance, “O God, I’m so thankful [for this or that]; I say this in the name of Jesus, so there’s no misunderstanding.” Are you following?
However, if you’re with other believers, I’d definitely include “in the name of Jesus” or “in Christ’s name” somewhere in the prayer, like “Heavenly Father, we come to you in the name of Jesus Christ…” or conclude with it. That way there’s no mistake to anyone present that it’s a Christian prayer addressing the Judeo-Christian God through Jesus Christ.
Speaking of which, an outstanding pastor I know in my area was asked to say a prayer at a public event. He spoke a good prayer over the proceedings and everything was fine until he closed with “in the name of Jesus Christ we pray, amen.” Backstage he was rebuked by the city officials for including that particular statement because – being a public event – there were many non-Christians present, including those who embraced Judaism.
This brings up the question: Should you omit saying “in the name of Jesus Christ” on such occasions? You’ll have to be led of the Holy Spirit and do what you have a peace about doing (Colossians 3:15). Personally, I don’t have a problem omitting the line in such a scenario since, if you refuse to omit it, the officials will simply get someone else to say a prayer for the event, which could be someone of, say, dubious theology. Keep in mind that God knows in such a situation that you’re praying in the name of Jesus and so do most other believers present. As for unbelievers, it could lead to one asking you about the LORD, which would open the door to sharing the gospel.
Related Topics:
When You Should Pray “If it be Your Will” and When You Shouldn’t
Spiritual Warfare — The Basics
Pay Attention to the CONDITIONS of Biblical Promises
How to “FEAR NOT” in Perilous Times
Should Women Cover Their Heads When They Pray & Prophesy?
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