Should these phrases be included in the biblical text?
Jesus instructed his disciples how to pray. However, he didn’t provide a nice closing amen after his model prayer. The KJV supplies this doxological statement with a customary amen, although most English translations do not include it.
This entire statement is missing from the earliest Greek manuscripts. However, most later manuscripts include it. Data supports both its inclusion and exclusion. It may have been an editorial addition written to invoke praise and worship as the Lord’s model prayer ends.
This raises a question: is it okay to pray this way? The statement does not contradict God’s Word in any fashion. It is also a great reminder of the prayer’s first petition, “your kingdom come.” It recalls to us God’s sovereignty. Not a bad way to end a prayer.
As we pray for missions, we are praying for God’s kingdom to advance. Advancement comes through the new birth when the gospel is heard (Rom. 10:17). Let’s commit ourselves anew not only to follow Jesus’ instruction on prayer, but also to proclaim his hallowed name to the nations.
This week, let’s pray:
“Father in heaven, yours really is the kingdom. Use me to advance it. Give me courage to proclaim your gospel. Show me where in the world you want me to take it. Amen.”
Set a daily reminder at 9:38 to pray, and receive weekly encouragement to guide your prayers.
