Luke 11:1

And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.

Luke 11:1 (KJV)

Context

Luke 11:1 finds Jesus praying in a certain place. When He finishes, one of His disciples asks, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” This request comes right after Jesus’ prayer, showing that His practice prompted the disciple’s desire to learn. Luke often notes Jesus praying (Luke 3:21; 5:16; 6:12; 9:18), and this moment is no exception. The setting is likely in Judea, distinct from the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus taught a similar prayer unasked (Matthew 6:9-13). The disciple may have been one of the seventy or a former follower of John, but the text does not specify.

Meaning

The disciple’s address of Jesus as “Lord” acknowledges His authority. The request is not for general knowledge but for practical instruction, reflecting a recognized need to grow in prayer. The phrase “as John also taught his disciples” indicates that John had a practice of teaching prayer, setting a precedent. The disciples had witnessed Jesus’ powerful prayer life and wanted to learn from Him. This verse emphasizes that prayer is a learned discipline and that Jesus is the divine teacher.

Biblical connections

This request introduces the Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:2-4), which Jesus gives in response. The focus here, however, is on the request itself. The disciples’ desire to learn from Jesus, just as John taught his own disciples, underscores the importance of learning from others in the spiritual journey. It also shows that even close followers of Jesus recognized their inadequacy in prayer and sought His guidance.

Application

Prayer is vital for believers. It is the means by which we communicate with God, seek His guidance, express gratitude, and make requests known. The disciples’ teachable spirit is noteworthy; they approached Jesus with humility and openness. We too should approach God with a teachable heart, seeking His wisdom. It is beneficial to seek guidance from mature Christians or spiritual leaders who can help deepen our understanding and practice of prayer.

Reflection

Jesus’ example teaches us to approach God with reverence, acknowledge His sovereignty, seek His will, ask for daily provision, seek forgiveness, and ask for guidance and protection. The disciples’ request reminds us that prayer is essential and that we can always grow in it. Like them, we can come to Jesus and ask, “Lord, teach us to pray.“