Timothy Keller concludes Chapter 8 of Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God by discussing the final two petitions of the Lord’s Prayer plus the ascription.
7. Lead us not into temptation. Pastor Keller states that Augustine made an important distinction about this petition: “The prayer is not that we should not be tempted, but that we should not be brought [or led] into temptation.”
Pastor Keller notes, however, that “temptation in the sense of being tried and tested is not only inevitable but desirable.” Entertaining and considering the possibility of giving in to sin is an altogether different situation and not desirable.
8. Deliver us from evil. Pastor Keller observes that an alternate translation of this petition is “deliver us from the Evil One.” Augustine indicates that while the previous petition is for deliverance from the remaining evil inside us, this petition is for protection from evil outside us.
9. For Thine is the kingdom . . . Although Augustine and Luther don’t treat the ascription to the Lord’s Prayer, Calvin believes it should be included. In the ascription we return to the truth of God’s sufficiency. Nothing can snatch away God’s kingdom, power, and glory.
Pastor Keller emphasizes the importance of corporate prayer, pointing out that Calvin believed “public ministry shapes private devotion, not vice versa.” As we pray corporately with friends, we’ll be able to hear and see facets of Jesus we haven’t yet perceived.
Today’s question: Which petition of the Lord’s Prayer is most meaningful to you? Please share.
Coming Monday: the new Short Meditation, “The control wheel”
Tomorrow’s blog: “Prayerlessness”
