The Apostolic Scriptures

Jesus' words to his disciples in the upper room make it clear that in becoming his Apostles they shall be given full understanding of the things they must preach and write: "In that day ye shall ask me nothing." So it is a great gift to have received  their Gospel in the Sacred Scriptures. These are the words of the Holy Apostles whom Jesus appointed and to whom he gave this marvelous understanding. And thus all pastors must adhere strictly to their words when they preach: we preach not ourselves; and all the people of God must also hold these words dear, not only in worship and praise, but also in personal prayer.  There is no need to craft your own messages to God by stammering and stuttering in your own prayers, though he will surely hear those as well. You may use the very words he gave you: the Our Father first, and then use it as a basis for your personal needs, and also the prayers of Scripture, especially the Psalter. And even so, you need not feel constrained to craft your own prayers, for the hymnal is a great resource full of prayers you may use.  And the risen Christ shall always be with us through these words, until he comes again in glory.  Sermon for Rogate, the Fifth Sunday after Easter.