Prayer: Praying In Jesus’ Name

Prayer: Praying in Jesus Name

In the ancient world, the “name” of a person represented the person himself and therefore all of that individual's character and a good “name” meant a good reputation. Therefore, when we pray in Jesus’ name, it represents all that he is and all that his character is. 

John 14:13-14 Jesus says, “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son; if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” Praying in Jesus’ name is praying in a way that is consistent with his character and that represents him and reflects his life and defers to  his will. 

Praying in Jesus’ name not only means praying in a way that is consistent with his character and will, but also by his authority. To make a request in the name of another person means that person has authorized us to make a request on his authority and not our own. Acts 3:6 exemplifies this when Peter commands the lame man to walk, “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” In this case and in our case, when we make a request in Jesus’ name, both Peter and us are speaking on the authority of Jesus.

Going back to John 14:13-14, does praying in “Jesus’ name” guarantee our prayers will be answered? Jesus is not speaking about utilizing a secret formula or certain words to guarantee our prayers will be answered. Jesus did not say, “If you ask anything and add the words ‘in Jesus’ name’ after your prayer, I will do it.” Therefore, adding this ending to our prayers doesn’t guarantee we get the desires of our heart. Instead, it means that we are making a request that is reflective of the character of Jesus and we are asking with Jesus’ authority. 

It is not wrong to conclude our prayers “In Jesus name.” Instead, it is for our understanding as to why we are instructed to use the terminology. “In Jesus’ name,” is meant to ensure that our requests are consistent with Jesus’ character and the request is made on his authority, not our own.

Genuine prayer is a conversation with a person whom we know well and who knows us. Therefore, prayer is not a magic formula, but a conversation with a person whom we know that is sincere and from the heart.