Matthew 21:18-22 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

The omnipotence of faith.

The miracles of Jesus were generally miracles of mercy. There are a few exceptions. Conspicuous amongst these is the withering of the fig tree with a word. When the disciples marvelled Jesus expounded to them his astonishing doctrine of the power of faith. We learn—

I. THAT BELIEVING IS ESSENTIAL TO PREVAILING PRAYER .

1 . There can be no prayer without faith in a personal God.

2 . There can be no prayer without faith in a Person susceptible to human appeals.

3 . Faith is active in successful prayer.

II. THAT BELIEVING PRAYER IS INFALLIBLY EFFECTIVE .

1 . B ecause God has pledged himself to it.

2 . But how is the infallible effectiveness of believing prayer reconciled with the wisdom of God?

3 . But how can efficacy in prayer comport with the uniformity of nature ' s processes?

III. THAT PRAYER FAILS THROUGH THE INFLUENCE OF CONDITIONS INIMICAL TO ACTIVE FAITH .

1 . As when the matter of the suit is unwise.

2 . As when the motive is unworthy of the suit.

3 . As when the disposition of the suppliant is inconsistent with sincerity.