Jesus has already taught his disciples some basic content of prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). We called this the Model Prayer. Others call it the Lord's Prayer.

But why pray at all? Is prayer just about clearing our minds? Is it just about fellowship with God? Is it just to bring us some peace?

Jesus address this question in Matthew 7:7-11. Very simply, he says, we pray in order to receive. We ask, seek, and knock, so we can receive, find, and have doors opened. And God promises to answer our prayers in this way. 

But does he? Aren't some prayers unanswered? We have to consider this question as we turn to this section of Jesus' Bootcamp for Disciples.