Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God by Timothy Keller
Week 4: Chapter 3 — The Greatness of Prayer
Read Chapter 3 of Prayer by Timothy Keller. Primary Scripture: Hebrews 4:14–16; Romans 8:26–27.
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This chapter asks us to consider the staggering privilege of prayer—that we have access, through Christ, to the Creator of the universe—and to let that reality produce wonder rather than familiarity. Bring your sense of smallness into the room, and let Keller help you see how great an invitation you have been given.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Keller emphasizes that Christians have access to God not as petitioners approaching a distant king but as children approaching a Father—and specifically, as people who approach God through the intercession of Jesus, who is himself praying for us (Hebrews 7:25). How often do you actually think about Christ's ongoing intercession when you pray? How might it change your posture?
2.Keller draws on the imagery of Hebrews 4:16—the 'throne of grace'—to hold together God's majesty and God's mercy. A throne is an image of power and authority; grace is entirely undeserved. What happens to prayer when we approach only the throne (keeping God at arm's length) or only the grace (losing all reverence)?
3.Romans 8:26–27 tells us the Spirit intercedes for us 'with groanings too deep for words.' How does the doctrine of the Spirit's intercession address the experience of not knowing what to pray—or of feeling too broken or confused to form words?
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