Is it important and/or necessary to pray in Jesus name?

Christians have been ending their prayers, “In Jesus name,” since Jesus’ resurrection and ascension into heaven. Why have they been doing this is a good question. The simple answer is found several times in the Scriptures. In the Gospel of John 14:13&14 Jesus said, “I will do anything you ask in my name…. You may ask me for anything in my name and I will do it.” It is repeated by Jesus again in John 16:23 and in several other places. So it seems important that as Christians we take Jesus at His word.

It is important also to remember that Jesus is the only mediator between man and God the Father. (2 Timothy 2:5) Jesus is also our personal advocate with God as he speaks to the Father on our behalf (1 John 2:1).  In addition, many times when we are troubled in spirit or overwhelmed by circumstances, the Holy Spirit actually hears our inner groaning’s and intercedes on our behalf. So we can conclude that it is both important and necessary that our prayers be offered to God in the name of Jesus if we want them to be answered.

But you might be thinking, what about those persons who aren’t Christians that are honestly seeking to have a relationship with God. This might include agnostics, atheists, those of all religions and all other non-believers. They wouldn’t know to pray in Jesus name, right? This is true. The good news is that God has promised to reveal Himself to those who diligently seek Him. God certainly hears the prayers of sinners that are truly wanting to be redeemed/saved, repent from their sinful ways and gain eternal life. God answers those prayers both in their hearts and minds. How? He points them to Jesus and the Scriptures.

That’s God’s’s amazing grace and gift of forgiveness and eternal life for all who accept Jesus as Savior and Lord. If you would like to learn more, read our post: How Can I Become a Christian?