The Parables of Jesus – Part 4: The Friend At Midnight
Series Memory Verse: “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (p.907)
“Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.’” Luke 11:1 (p.793)
Jesus’ parable about prayer: Luke 11:5-13
Jewish hospitality laws:
- When you have a visitor you must provide generously to your guests.
- A friend must help their neighbor with their request for bread.
- I Will Thank God Through Prayer.
- Pray with persistence, boldness, and shamelessness.
“But I tell you this—though he won’t do it for friendship’s sake, if you keep knocking long enough, he will get up and give you whatever you need because of your shameless persistence.” Luke 11:8 (p.793)
Greek: ἀναίδεια (anaideia) – persistence, boldness, shamelessness
“And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” Luke 11:9 (p.793)
- Praise God for His faithfulness and goodness.
“For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:10 (p.793)
“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” Jeremiah 29:13 (p.596)
My Next Step This Week: _____ I will thank God through prayer with ________________ and praise Him for His ____________________.
Jesus reveals the Heart of the Father: Luke 11:11-13, Acts 2:1-4, John 15:26