Luke 11:1

¶ And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.

And {G2532} it came to pass {G1096}, that, as {G1722} he {G846} was {G1511} praying {G4336} in {G1722} a certain {G5100} place {G5117}, when {G5613} he ceased {G3973}, one {G5100} of his {G846} disciples {G3101} said {G2036} unto {G4314} him {G846}, Lord {G2962}, teach {G1321} us {G2248} to pray {G4336}, as {G2531} John {G2491} also {G2532} taught {G1321} his {G846} disciples {G3101}.

One time Yeshua was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of the talmidim said to him, “Sir, teach us to pray, just as Yochanan taught his talmidim.”

One day in a place where Jesus had just finished praying, one of His disciples requested, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”

And it came to pass, as he was praying in a certain place, that when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, even as John also taught his disciples.

Commentary

Luke 11:1 marks a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative, setting the stage for Jesus's foundational teaching on prayer. This verse captures a disciple's simple yet profound request, born from observing Jesus's own vibrant prayer life.

Context

The scene unfolds after Jesus has been engaged in prayer. Luke's Gospel frequently highlights Jesus's consistent withdrawal to pray, presenting Him as the ultimate example of devotion and communion with God. The disciples, witnessing this intimate practice, recognize its significance. Their request, "Lord, teach us to pray," is not merely for words to recite, but for the discipline, spirit, and method of prayer that Jesus embodies. The reference to John the Baptist having taught his disciples suggests that structured prayer was a recognized part of spiritual training among various Jewish groups, and the disciples desired similar instruction from their own Master.

Key Themes

  • The Example of Jesus's Prayer Life: Jesus's habitual prayer served as a powerful model for His followers, inspiring them to seek a deeper connection with God.
  • The Desire for Spiritual Instruction: The disciples' request demonstrates a humble recognition of their need for guidance in a fundamental spiritual discipline. It underscores the idea that prayer is not just instinctual, but also a learned art.
  • Discipleship and Learning: This verse highlights the dynamic of discipleship, where followers observe their teacher and seek to emulate His practices. It's an invitation into a deeper relationship with God through the Master's teaching.
  • The Importance of Prayer: The very act of asking to be taught to pray underscores the central role prayer plays in the life of a believer and in the relationship with God.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "pray" used here is proseuchomai (προσεύχομαι), which denotes a general act of prayer, often involving worship, supplication, and communion with God. It implies more than just reciting words; it speaks to an intimate engagement and earnest conversation with the divine. The disciples' plea, "teach us," indicates a desire for practical instruction on how to engage in this profound spiritual exercise effectively, reflecting a longing for the kind of spiritual power and peace they saw in Jesus.

Practical Application

Luke 11:1 serves as a timeless reminder for believers today. Just as the disciples observed Jesus, we too should be inspired by His example of prayer. It encourages us to:

  • Prioritize Prayer: Make prayer a consistent and vital part of our daily lives, recognizing its importance in our relationship with God.
  • Seek Guidance in Prayer: Don't be afraid to admit a need for deeper understanding or greater effectiveness in prayer. Like the disciples, we can ask God, or seek guidance from spiritual mentors, on how to pray more effectively.
  • Embrace Humility: The disciples, despite spending much time with Jesus, humbly asked for instruction. This humility is key to spiritual growth.
  • Understand Prayer as Relationship: This verse leads directly into the Lord's Prayer in Luke 11:2-4, emphasizing that prayer is first and foremost about connecting with God as our Father.

This verse reminds us that prayer is a journey of learning and growth, essential for every disciple of Christ.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 19:14 (12 votes)

    Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

  • Jude 1:20 (9 votes)

    But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,

  • Luke 22:39 (9 votes)

    ¶ And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.

  • Luke 22:45 (9 votes)

    And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,

  • Luke 6:12 (9 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

  • Romans 8:26 (9 votes)

    ¶ Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

  • Romans 8:27 (9 votes)

    And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what [is] the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God.