Q. Does God hear the prayers of nonChristians?
A. God hears all prayers but has only promised to bless the prayers of His children.
Nothing goes unnoticed by God (Hebrews 4:13). And God in His common grace has used the prayers of nonChristians in the Bible and in human history (ex. Acts 10:31). God has not, however, promised to bless the prayers of nonChristians like He has for His children (Matthew 7:9-11).
2 comments:
Someone asked me this question just this past Sunday. I gave the "correct" answer, but wish I had known this catechism answer. I just sent it via e-mail to my questioner. Thanks.
You're welcome! Glad it helps.
I had often struggled with this question, but I think this answer gives the bibilcal balance. He does hear and sometimes answers (Cornelius was a really helpful character for illustrating this!), but not being in covenant with unbelievers, doesn't promise those answers in the same way.
-Matt
Post a Comment