Why we pray in the name of Jesus

Prayer in the name of Jesus is how Christians are identified. 

These are the most essential elements of Christianity. We believe in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, “and these three are one.” – 1 John 5:7 (see also John 1:1-4) However, as Christians we specifically pray in the name of Jesus. Why?

Scripture teaches us in Joel 2:32, “whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Our Christian experience is manifested in the assurance of salvation. While a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved, it is also the only way to be a Christian. (Acts 4:12 and John 14:6)

Effective Ministry

Praying in the name of Jesus enables us to bless people more efficiently in ministry.

Scripture teaches us to love God and love others. (Mark 12:30-31) Through prayerful continuity, our relationship with God develops an inclination to love with a greater sense of compassion. As we become more fruitful in ministry we have the potential to experience the Holy Spirit bless us with the power to do some really amazing things. (John 14:12-15) Our prayers in Jesus’ name serve as a powerful witness, substantiating the authenticity of our belief in God. We pray in the name of Jesus because it enables us to fulfill His purpose in our lives, blessing the lives of others.

“The strongest argument in favor of the gospel is a loving and lovable Christian.” – Ellen G White, The Ministry of Healing, p. 470

Jesus’ Love and Power

Kindness, in the name of Jesus, compels a powerful and eternal reward.

Every good word and deed should be done in Jesus’ name with gratitude to the Father. (Colossians 3:16) Early Christians recognized the full implications of power filled prayers in the name of Jesus. They were healing the sick and raising the dead simply by believing in the power of Jesus’ name when they prayed. (Acts 3:6 and James 5:14-16) Unified prayer among believers pleases the Father and Jesus has promised that He is with us when we pray together. (Matthew 18:20)

There are so many excellent reasons to pray in the name of Jesus. The best reason, however, to pray in Jesus’ name is that we love Him. Praise is the awesome experience of acknowledging God in His perfection, love and holiness because of who He is. We are inclined to grow closer to Jesus as a result of prayer, because His faithfulness indicates His love for us and increases our faith. It is encouraging to witness God fulfill His biblical promises in our lives and answer prayers. There is power in the name of Jesus and you can experience that in your prayer life today.

Christian Writer and SEO Strategist Camille Weston of Integrity144

Do you pray in Jesus’ name? Why or why not?

Join the discussion by commenting on this post! 🙂