The Blessing: Living the Disciples Prayer
Every year at Westcity, straight after the Easter period, we focus our attention on the Sermon on the Mount – one of the most profound and foundational sections of Jesus’ teachings (Matthew 5-7). It offers a comprehensive version of what it means to live as citizens of God’s Kingdom. Over the course of this series, we will explore the timeless principles that Jesus laid out for His disciples, guiding them on how to live in harmony with God, reflect His love in the world, and be transformed by the gospel.
This year, we will be breaking down the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) as a key framework through which to understand the broader themes of the Sermon. Each element of the prayer invites us to reflect deeply on aspects of our relationship with God, such as honouring His name, seeking His Kingdom, relying on His provision, forgiving as we have been forgiven, and acknowledging His eternal power and glory.
From there, we will expand our focus into other teachings within the Sermon on the Mount, connecting each section of the prayer to practical ways Jesus calls us to live out the Kingdom values. By understanding the Lord’s Prayer in the context of the entire Sermon, we aim to gain a fuller, richer understanding of what it means to follow Christ and live as His disciples in today’s world.
Key Scriptures
Matthew 4:17 (NIV)
From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”
Matthew 4:23 (NIV)
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.
Matthew 6:9-13 (NIV)
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.