Why We Pray: Understanding Prayer in the Context of Cosmic Conflict
Digital Logos Edition
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Overview
If God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and entirely good, why do we need to ask God to do good things? Won’t God act for the best regardless? Do our prayers even make a difference? Why do some go unanswered? This brief, accessible book provides a fresh angle on our questions to help us think differently about why we pray and what happens when we pray.
John Peckham applies the insights from his successful book Theodicy of Love to the perennial problem of petitionary prayer, offering practical implications for how we might pray and live in ways that advance God’s kingdom of unselfish love. Since our understanding of petitionary prayer is inseparable from our understanding of God, Peckham sheds significant light on the nature and character of God and the often-mysterious workings of divine providence. He does so by bringing theological and philosophical nuance to readings of key biblical texts on prayer, weaving in other scriptural clues to articulate an understanding of prayer that highlights not only its necessity but also its urgency. This book will appeal to students, pastors, church leaders, and thoughtful laypeople.
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- Brings theological and philosophical nuance to readings of key biblical texts on prayer
- Applies the insights from his successful book Theodicy of Love
- Offers practical implications for how we might pray and live in ways that advance God’s kingdom of unselfish love
- Title: Why We Pray: Understanding Prayer in the Context of Cosmic Conflict
- Author: John C. Peckham
- Edition: First Edition
- Publisher: Baker Academic
- Print Publication Date: 2024
- Logos Release Date: 2024
- Pages: 208
- Era: era:contemporary
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Reader Edition
- Subjects: Prayer; Good and evil
- ISBNs: 9781493446230, 9781493446247, 9781540967817, 9781540966285, 1493446231, 149344624X, 1540967816, 1540966283
- Resource ID: LLS:WHYWPCSMCCNFLCT
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2024-07-23T17:49:22Z
Reviews
2 ratings
Obed Matus
7/31/2024
I recently read "Why We Pray" and found it to be very insightful and comprehensive about the nature, purpose, and impact of prayer. The book dives into the theological, philosophical, and practical sides of prayer, answering some of the toughest questions believers have. Through careful and clear examination of biblical stories and theological ideas, the Peckham shows how prayer can transform a believer's life. One of the book's best parts is how it deals with the complexities and paradoxes of petitionary prayer. It thoughtfully considers why some prayers seem unanswered and how this fits with the idea of an all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-loving God. The author uses scripture and theological insights to explore these issues, giving readers a balanced view that encourages both faith and thinking. I especially liked how the book emphasizes the relational aspect of prayer, showing God as a responsive being who engages with humanity in meaningful ways. This view challenges the old ideas of God's unchangeability, offering instead a picture of a God who is deeply involved in our lives. By highlighting the interactive nature of prayer, the book invites readers to see prayer as a dynamic and transformative dialogue with the divine, not just a ritual. The book also talks about the larger cosmic context in which prayer happens. Peckham introduces the idea of cosmic conflict, framing prayer within the bigger story of a battle between good and evil. This adds a layer of complexity to understanding prayer, suggesting that our prayers play a significant role in God's actions within this cosmic struggle. This approach helps readers understand the spiritual importance of prayer better. Another strength of the book is its detailed look at the practical implications of prayer. Peckham discusses how prayer can change the person praying, aligning their will more closely with God's and deepening their relationship with Him. The book also highlights the importance of persistence in prayer, using biblical examples to show the value of steadfastness and faith, even when responses seem delayed or silent. This focus on practical spirituality makes this book not only intellectually engaging but also personally enriching. Finally, Why We Pray does not shy away from the emotional and existential challenges of prayer. It acknowledges the feelings of abandonment and frustration that many feel when prayers seem unanswered, offering a compassionate perspective that validates these struggles. By including the practice of lament, Peckham provides a way for readers to express their deepest emotions and questions to God, showing that prayer is a space for honest and open communication with the divine. Overall, "Why We Pray" is a profound and enriching book about prayer that offers valuable insights for believers of all backgrounds. It combines deep theological analysis with practical guidance, making it a great resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding and practice of prayer. The book encourages readers to embrace the mystery and complexity of prayer, fostering a deeper faith and a stronger relationship with God. Whether you are experienced in prayer or just starting, "Why We Pray" is a must-read that will inspire and challenge you on your spiritual journey.
Mabio Coeho Neto
7/31/2024
"Why We Pray" by John Peckham is a transformative exploration of prayer that strikes a perfect balance between scholarly depth and everyday accessibility. This book is a breath of fresh air for anyone grappling with the complexities of prayer, offering a candid and unsentimental examination of what the Bible truly says about the subject. Peckham's approach is both rigorous and relatable, making it an essential read for both skeptics and believers. He does not shy away from challenging questions, such as why a seemingly silent God may not answer our prayers in times of distress. Instead, he engages these challenges head-on, providing a thorough, Bible-saturated discussion that is both intellectually satisfying and spiritually enriching. One of the book's standout features is its ability to address the profound and often perplexing aspects of prayer without losing its readability. Peckham's extensive use of Biblical references grounds his arguments firmly in scripture, making it one of the most detailed treatments of prayer I have come across. Despite its scholarly nature, the book remains accessible, allowing readers from all walks of life to engage with its content meaningfully. The honesty with which Peckham tackles the subject is particularly refreshing. He does not offer pat answers or straightforward solutions but instead provides a thoughtful, nuanced perspective that respects both the Bible and the reader's intelligence. This approach not only deepens the reader's understanding of prayer but also enhances their appreciation of its power and significance in the Christian life. "Why We Pray" is more than just a book; it is a valuable resource that readers will return to time and again. Whether used for personal reflection, group study, or pastoral guidance, its insights are both profound and practical. Peckham's previous work, "Theodicy of Love," complements this book perfectly, and together they offer a comprehensive look at the nature of God's interactions with us. In summary, "Why We Pray" is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of prayer. John Peckham's ability to blend scholarly insight with everyday relevance makes this book a significant contribution to Christian literature. It is a compelling, honest, and ultimately uplifting exploration of why we pray and how God responds. I felt blessed reading it, and I highly recommend this book.
Eric Louw
7/26/2024
Whether a skeptic or believer, most people have pondered: Why would a perfectly good and all-powerful God sometimes seem to be silent and hidden amid distress? John Peckham tackles this and more through his thorough, Bible-saturated, canonical approach with hundreds of Biblical references. He addresses each of the variables associated with answered and unanswered prayer, giving insight into how the Bible counsels us to pray while also looking at what the Bible says about God's response and orientation toward answering our prayers. This is by far the most detailed book on prayer I have read, and I will be recommending it to anyone with questions about prayer for years to come.
