Q.189. What doth the preface of the Lord’s prayer teach us?

A. The preface of the Lord’s prayer (contained in these words, Our Father which art in heaven,[d]) teacheth us, when we pray, to draw near to God with confidence of his fatherly goodness, and our interest therein;[e] with reverence, and all other child-like dispositions,[f] heavenly affections,[g] and due apprehensions of his sovereign power, majesty, and gracious condescension:[h] as also, to pray with and for others.[i]

[d] Matt. 6:9.

[e] Luke 11:13. Rom. 8:15.

[f] Isa. 64:9.

[g] Ps. 123:1. Lam. 3:41.

[h] Isa. 63:15,16. Neh. 1:4-6.

[i] Acts 12:5.