Westminster Larger Catechism – Lord’s Day 45
Q & A 186
Q What rule has God given for our direction in the duty of prayer?
A The whole Word of God is of use to direct us in the duty of prayer; but the special rule of direction is that form of prayer which our Savior Christ taught his disciples, commonly called the Lord’s Prayer.
Q & A 187
Q How is the Lord’s Prayer to be used?
A The Lord’s Prayer is not only for direction, as a pattern, according to which we are to make other prayers; but may also be used as a prayer, so that it be done with understanding, faith, reverence, and other graces necessary to the right performance of the duty of prayer.
Q & A 188
Q Of how many parts does the Lord’s Prayer consist?
A The Lord’s Prayer consists of three parts; a preface, petitions, and a conclusion.
Q & A 189
Q What does the preface of the Lord’s Prayer teach us?
A The preface of the Lord’s Prayer (contained in these words, Our Father in heaven), teaches us, when we pray, to draw near to God with confidence of his fatherly goodness, and our interest therein; with reverence, and all other childlike dispositions, heavenly affections, and due apprehensions of his sovereign power, majesty, and gracious condescension: as also, to pray with and for others.
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