Toward a theology of prayer

The resurgence of evangelicalism in our country has been both a boon and curse. Many cultural values have been amalgamated with the Biblical content of faith producing a kind of hybrid piety. In the midst of this resurgence, authentic Biblical prayer appears to be in eclipse. While significant strides are being made in the political arena, it is clear that the basic dynamic for the continued work of Christ in the world is being ignored by the church. Contemporary forms of piety wed the contemplative-mystical, the psychological-therapeutic and the evaluative-pleasure motifs into an experience-based cry for God\u27s help in the world. The spiritual gurus communicate their promises of instant spiritual success through every form of media available. Amidst all of the clamor and activity, it often appears that the risen Savior stands outside of His church knocking for admission. Pentecost is the epoch-marking event of the church. This is the age of the Spirit and prayer. Prayer has a place in the economy of the church that is decidedly different from its place in the old economy. The issues involved in Biblical prayer touch the very nature of Christ\u27s redemptive victory on behalf of His church. At stake is the presence of the power of the resurrected Christ in the midst of His people during the time period between His ascension and His return