Study Guide: “Our Father in Heaven” (Matthew 6:9-10)
This study guide is based on the opening lines of the Lord’s Prayer from Matthew 6:9-10. It is designed for use in group settings or individual reflection, encouraging deeper understanding and practical application of Jesus’ teaching on prayer.
Bible Passage: Matthew 6:9-10 (NIV)
“This, then, is how you should pray:
‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.’”
Main Themes:
- God’s Holiness:
“Hallowed be your name” points to the holiness and greatness of God. We are called to recognize His purity, perfection, and absolute difference from us. - God’s Fatherhood:
Jesus invites us to address God as “Father,” signifying a close, intimate relationship and our dependence on Him. - God’s Kingdom and Will:
Praying “your kingdom come, your will be done” aligns our desires with God’s purpose for the world. We are seeking His rule and reign to invade our lives and the world around us.
Discussion Points:
- Understanding “Hallowed Be Your Name”
What does “hallowed” mean to you?
How do we practically “hallow” God’s name in our daily lives?
Reflect on the holiness of God. How does understanding God’s holiness affect how we approach Him? - God as Our Father
What does it mean for you to call God “Father”?
How does seeing God as both holy and personal change the way we relate to Him in prayer? - Seeking God’s Kingdom and Will
What does the phrase “your kingdom come” mean in the context of your life? How do you see God’s kingdom breaking into the world?
In what areas of your life do you struggle to submit to God’s will? How can we better align our desires with God’s plan?
Application Questions:
- Praise and Worship as a Response to Anxiety
Reflecting on the sermon, how can praising God help us combat feelings of stress or anxiety? Have you experienced peace when focusing on God’s holiness and greatness? - Releasing Control
What are the things in your life that make you feel like everything revolves around you? How can surrendering control to God bring relief and freedom? - Praying for God’s Kingdom
In your family, community, or workplace, what specific areas can you pray for God’s kingdom to come and His will to be done?
Prayer Prompts:
- Adoration
Begin by praising God for His holiness and greatness. Thank Him for being set apart, yet intimately involved as your Father. - Surrender
Ask God to help you release control of your worries and align your heart with His will. - Kingdom Focus
Pray for God’s kingdom to be established in the specific areas of your life, your church, and the world around you. Ask for His justice, love, and truth to be made evident.
Reflection and Worship
As you reflect on the sermon and the Lord’s Prayer, take time to engage in worship. Lift your hands, praise God’s holy name, and declare His goodness over your life. Even if you don’t feel like it, know that God is worthy of your worship in every season of life.