Church of the Eternal God
Church of the Eternal God Question and Answer
Q: Many people in Protestant churches pray to Jesus Christ, while Mary and various saints are also addressed in Catholic prayers. What is the Biblical teaching regarding whom a Christian should talk to in prayer?
Published: September 23rd, 2005
There is indeed much confusion regarding how to pray and to whom one should pray; however, the Bible clearly reveals that the followers of Jesus Christ should direct their prayers, first and foremost, to God the Father.
When asked about how to pray by one of His disciples, Jesus was very specific regarding to whom prayer was to be offered: "So He said to them, 'When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your Kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven '" (Luke 11:2). In the full context of His instruction about prayer, we find this final comment: "'If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! '" (Luke 11:13).
Q: Would you please explain 2 Kings 5:17-19? Did Elisha permit the Syrian officer Naaman to worship idols in the pagan temple of Rimmon?
Published: December 2nd, 2005
Some have used this passage to justify Christian participation in pagan worship services. This is, however, not the meaning of 2 Kings 5:17-19, and the Bible, as a whole, clearly condemns such practices. Before analyzing the passage in question, let us review what happened before.
"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden."
-Matthew 5:14
"And the gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."
-Matthew 24:14