And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.
Calling on God is the chief trial of faith. God is not rightly called upon except we are fully persuaded our prayers will not be in vain; those who hesitate in doubt have no faith at all. Under the Papacy, certainty is buried and nearly extinct, for they condemn the very confidence the Apostle requires as necessary to prayer.
AI summary
Christ emboldens us to petition God in all circumstances; through Him our supplications are admitted and accepted. Know that your petition is heard, and you know already that you have received what you desired. This assurance, grounded in the will of God, is as good as the answer itself.
AI summary
Commenting on 1 John 5:14-17
Through Christ's blood and righteousness, believers come to God's throne with boldness and freedom of speech. When we ask according to His will, not His secret decrees, which are unknown, but His revealed will, He hears us and will not leave our prayers useless.
AI summary