God and mankind are fully reconciled in Jesus Christ by not having their trespasses imputed to them. The completed work of Jesus on the cross offers to everyone who will believe in Him forgiveness and righteousness. This finished work releases to every believer the blessing of Abraham whom God called a friend. The gospel gets better still.
Elder Thomas touches upon the subject of prayer, noting that the disciples specifically asked Jesus to teach them how to pray, recognizing its central role in His ministry. Elder Thomas explains that the Lord’s Prayer serves as a model, while the surrounding verses examine the believer’s heart and attitude in prayer. True prayer is described as private, sincere, and relational—directed to God as Father—rather than performative or based on repetitive words. The emphasis is on cultivating an authentic, personal connection with God rather than relying on outward rituals or formulas.
