Prayer and faith (3)

Faith is necessary in order to approach God

Hebrews 11:6 KJV 1900

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Faith is necessary to receive benefits from God

Mk 6:5–6; Jas 5:16–18

See also Eph 3:12; Heb 10:22

Faith is necessary for effective prayer

Mt 21:21–22; Jas 1:5–8

See also Jas 5:14–15

Jesus Christ responded to people’s need on the basis of faith

Matthew 9:27–30 KJV 1900

And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou Son of David, have mercy on us. And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord. Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it.

See also Mt 8:5–13; Mt 9:20–22; Mt 15:21–28

Examples of notable prayers of faith

1 Ki 18:36–37 Elijah, in contest with the prophets of Baal; Jas 5:17–18 Elijah, praying about rain; 1 Ki 17:19–22 Elijah and the widow’s son; 2 Ki 4:32–35 Elisha and the Shunammite’s son