Observation

This question was less popular among the candidates. In the part A, most candidates answered this question from their own sociological perspective by preaching rather than answering the questions as outlined by James. In the part A, candidates were not able to identify the demands of Christians for an effective prayer. The part B was less challenging as candidates were able to list types of prayers. For study sake, candidates should have stated that;

1. James advised Christians to be joyful when they face trials.
2. He holds the view that trials are meant to test one’s faith since when faith is tested it produces steadfastness.
3. He further said that steadfastness should have its full effect in their lives so that they might be perfect and lack nothing.
4. According to James, if anyone lacks wisdom, he should pray to God who gives generously without reproach.
5. He also said that Christians must repent of their sins and confess them to one another for God is holy and does not tolerate sin.
6. According to him, prayers must be made in faith without doubting, for the doubter will receive nothing.
7. He compared anyone who doubts with the wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.
8. James argued that any petition made to God must be backed by belief that God would grant their request.
9. James revealed that God is glorified when people pray for the right things. Prayer should be made in accordance to the will of God.
10. James urged Christians to exercise patience when they pray for God’s will to be done.
11. Furthermore, prayers must be made in humility to be effective.
12. James also remarked that Christians must pray persistently till their prayers are answered.
13. According to James, the fervent prayer of the righteous has great effect.
14. He gave an example of Elijah who prayed fervently for no rain and there was no rain for three years.
15. Elijah prayed again and it rained.
16. James again said that if anyone was cheerful he should sing hymns of praise.
17. He further taught that if anyone was sick, the elders of the church should be invited to pray for the person.
18. And the prayer of faith would heal the sick.

 

2. TYPES OF PRAYERS CHRISTIANS OFFER
1. Prayer of adoration
2. Intercessory prayer.
3. Prayer of supplication/Petition.
4. Prayer of dedication.
5. Prayer of confession/ Forgiveness.
6. Prayer of thanksgiving.
7. Liturgical prayer.
8. Meditation/contemplation.