Exploring the purpose of prayer and the relationship between God's knowledge and free will. Emphasizing the power of prayer in aligning our desires with God's will. Stresses the importance of resisting temptation and caring for the earth and each other.
God's knowledge of the future is not absolute, leaving room for individuals' actions and choices.
Prayer is about addressing our genuine needs and aligning our will with God's love and care for one another.
Deep dives
God's Knowledge of the Future
The speaker discusses the question of whether God already knows what will happen in the future. He rejects the idea that God has predetermined or has full knowledge of future events, as it would invalidate the concept of free will. Drawing from the story of the Garden of Eden, where God shows disappointment with Adam and Eve eating from the forbidden tree, the speaker argues for an openness to the future. He believes that people have a responsibility to take care of the Earth and each other, as shown by God's command for humans to till the Garden of Eden. Overall, the speaker asserts that God's knowledge of the future is not absolute, leaving room for individuals' actions and choices.
The Purpose of Prayer
The speaker explores the question of the purpose of prayer, specifically in relation to God's already knowing what individuals need. He distinguishes between needs and wants, emphasizing that prayer is about addressing our genuine needs. Referencing the Lord's Prayer in the gospel of Matthew, the speaker explains that prayer is not meant to change God's mind but rather to change individuals. By aligning our will with God's, we can actively participate in bringing about God's kingdom on Earth. This includes sharing resources, demonstrating forgiveness, and resisting the temptation to hoard or seek revenge. The speaker concludes that prayer allows humans to become more God-like by aligning their desires and wills with God's love and care for one another.
In this episode, Pastor Adam Ericksen answers the question, "What is the point of prayer?"
Have a question you'd like to see answered on the podcast? Submit it via email to aericksen@ravenfoundation.org.
"One Question with Pastor Adam" is a Raven Foundation production.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode