Podcast Summary: The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Sinclair Ferguson

Episode: Question & Answer 98 — "What is Prayer?"
Host: Ligonier Ministries
Date: February 17, 2026

Overview

This episode focuses on Question 98 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism: "What is prayer?" Dr. Sinclair Ferguson explores the definition provided, explaining what it reveals about the nature of Christian prayer. The episode aims to help listeners understand both the simplicity and profundity of prayer, equipping Christians—whether pastors, teachers, parents, or students—for more meaningful discipleship and spiritual growth.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Catechism’s Definition of Prayer

• Introduction of Q&A 98:
  “What is prayer? Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God for things agreeable to his will in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.” (00:01)
• The Catechism succinctly captures prayer as a multifaceted act: a presenting of desires to God, with specific attitudes and under key conditions.

2. Components of True Prayer

• Offering Up Desires:
  Dr. Ferguson highlights that prayer is fundamentally relational: it is “an offering up of our desires unto God,” emphasizing communication and dependence.
• According to His Will:
  He stresses that petitions must be “for things agreeable to his will,” guiding listeners away from self-centered requests and towards a Christ-like alignment of desires.
• In the Name of Christ:
  Prayers are presented “in the name of Christ,” signaling faith in Christ’s mediation.
• Confession and Thanksgiving:
  True prayer always includes “confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.” Ferguson points out the importance of humility and gratitude.

3. The Significance for Christian Life and Discipleship

• Foundational for Spiritual Growth:
  Dr. Ferguson states that understanding these basics prepares believers for “the solid food” of biblical doctrine and healthy spiritual maturation.
• Accessible to All:
  He encourages listeners—whatever their role—to bring people into the richness of biblical prayer, building a strong foundation for Christian discipleship.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the Essence of Prayer:
  “Prayer is the simplest yet most profound thing a Christian ever does: presenting our desires to our heavenly Father.” — Sinclair Ferguson (00:15)
• On Aligning Our Prayers with God’s Will:
  “In the Catechism’s answer, notice how we’re taught not just to pray for what we want, but for those things that are agreeable to his will, shaped and reshaped by his word.” — Sinclair Ferguson (00:48)
• On Confession and Thanksgiving:
  “Christian prayer is never just asking for things; it’s coming with confession, knowing our need, and with thanksgiving, knowing God’s generosity.” — Sinclair Ferguson (01:22)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:01 — Introduction of Westminster Shorter Catechism Q&A 98
• 00:15 — The essence of prayer as desire offered to God
• 00:48 — Importance of seeking things according to God’s will
• 01:22 — Confession and thanksgiving as inseparable from prayer

Final Thoughts

Dr. Ferguson’s exploration of Question 98 is a concise yet rich guide to understanding prayer. He encourages listeners to see prayer as a daily, holistic practice—anchored in dependence, confession, and thanksgiving, always rooted in Christ and God’s will. This episode equips individuals and families to deepen their prayer life, building a solid foundation for growth in faith.