- In Luke 11:1 a disciple says, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Considering his background, what seems surprising about such a basic request?
- Have you personally had a background in prayer already? In other words, are you already experienced in prayer, or is prayer new to you?
- What does the context of Luke 11 suggest about why the disciple felt the need to learn prayer?
- What are some of Jesus’ unique qualifications for teaching us to pray?
- Thinking about your own prayer life, what would you like to gain from this Bible course? That is, what need would you like the course to meet? In what aspects of prayer would you like to grow?
CONCLUSION
This WBS Supplemental Course is designed for “self-study” in which you study on your own, without requiring much help from your Study Helper. Yes, your Study Helper provides the course to you. But, unlike the WBS Master Series, you do not have to return answers to the Thought Questions to your Study Helper. The multiple choice questions will be graded automatically, but if you answer incorrectly, your Study Helper can add the correct answer for you.
To get the most from your personal study, make your own notes in answer to the Thought Questions. At the last Thought Question for each lesson, write down your decision about the specific action you will take as a result of that lesson. Seek the Lord’s help in taking this action, in making the necessary changes, in growing to be like Jesus.
Why are we making this course, and similar Supplemental Courses, “self-study”? The first reason has to do with learning to depend more on the Lord and less on your Study Helper. You are learning to study God’s word for yourself. Also, this allows your Study Helper to take new students who have not yet had opportunities to learn the Good News.
The second reason also has to do with the maturing process. You will begin by studying and applying this course for your own spiritual growth. You are strengthening your relationship with God Himself. As you become familiar with the material, you most likely will want to share its valuable lessons with others. You can then use these lessons to teach individuals or groups. “Extra References and Notes” at the end of the course may assist you with further study and preparation.
WBS Supplemental Courses are also designed for use in classes and groups. Usually one new lesson is studied each week, which suggests that the course can be completed in about three months. Group interaction is encouraged through Thought Questions. Participants who have a copy can read ahead and prepare their answers. Then they will be ready to take part in the discussion of each lesson. For practical growth in prayer, it is important for each participant to decide on a definite action to take after each lesson. “Extra References and Notes” at the end of the course may assist you with preparation for teaching.
It is our prayer that you will benefit from this course as you attend Scripture’s school of prayer. May you enter more fully than ever into the prayer-life of Jesus Christ, the Son of God!