St. Ignatius Brianchaninov | Praying by the Prayer of Jesus is a divine institution

Praying by the Prayer of Jesus is a divine institution. It was instituted not by means of an apostle or by means of an angel; it was instituted by the Son of God and God Himself.

After the mystical supper among other sublime, final commandments and orders, the Lord Jesus Christ instituted prayer by His name. He gave this way of prayer as a new, extraordinary gift, a gift of infinite value.

The apostles partly knew already the power of the name of Jesus; they healed incurable diseases by it, they reduced devils to obedience, conquered, bound, and expelled them by it. This most mighty, wonderful name the Lord orders us to use in prayer. He promised that such prayer will be particularly effectual.

Whatever you ask, He said to the holy apostles, the Father in My name, I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it (John 14:13).

Truly, truly, I tell you, if you ask anything of the Father in My name, He will give it you. Till now you have asked nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full (John 16:23).

On the Prayer of Jesus

Bishop Ignatius Brianchaninov