Prayer (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

Prayer (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

Prayer is Section XLIV of The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction, Michael Ferrebee Sadler's 1872 expansion of the Church Catechism in question-and-answer form.

Summary

Sadler begins the catechism's teaching on prayer by stressing human dependence on grace. Prayer is presented as the appointed means by which Christians seek God's help to believe and obey.

Sadler's Text

Sadler's catechetical treatment of this topic is anchored in the statement, "I mean a particular gift of the power of God's Holy Spirit, given to each person to enable him to walk in the commandments of God, and to serve Him." He further explains the section by saying, "The lifting up of the heart to God, generally expressed in words of prayer and thanksgiving; but sometimes felt only in hearty desires and longings for His grace and help."

Theological Themes

• Dependence on grace
• Petition
• Perseverance in prayer
• Forgiveness and charity

Scripture References

The following references are representative biblical texts used or implied in this section of Sadler's catechetical exposition:

• John 15:5
• Philippians 4:13
• Matthew 7:7-8
• John 16:23
• Mark 11:24-26
• Luke 11:5-13

Anglican Context

This section belongs to Sadler's exposition of prayer in the Church Catechism. It is connected with the regular use of the Lord's Prayer in the Daily Office, Holy Communion, baptism, confirmation, and other Anglican services. Sadler's treatment reflects nineteenth-century Church of England catechesis and should be read as a historical Anglican source alongside current provincial formularies and catechetical resources.

See Also

• The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction
• Lord's Prayer
• Prayer
• Daily Office
• Book of Common Prayer