Prayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God by Timothy Keller
Week 7: Chapter 6 — Conversing with God: Prayer as Encounter
Read Chapter 6 of Prayer by Timothy Keller. Primary Scripture: Genesis 32:22–30; Exodus 33:11.
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Keller now draws together the previous threads and describes what genuine encounter with God in prayer actually feels like—drawing on the striking image of Jacob wrestling with the angel as a picture of authentic, persevering prayer. Come to these questions ready to think about what it would mean for prayer to become a real encounter rather than a routine.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Keller uses the story of Jacob wrestling with God at Peniel (Gen. 32) as an extended image for prayer. Jacob refuses to let go until he receives a blessing. What does this image say about the disposition prayer requires—specifically about perseverance, honesty, and the willingness to be hurt in the process?
2.Keller also points to the description of Moses speaking with God 'face to face, as a man speaks with his friend' (Exod. 33:11). What kind of friendship is implied in that description? How does it compare with how you currently experience your conversations with God?
3.Keller distinguishes between prayer as monologue (talking at God) and prayer as genuine dialogue (a conversation in which we also listen). What does it mean to listen in prayer? What makes it difficult, and how is listening in prayer different from simply waiting for an emotional experience?
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