There is a big controversy in the Christian community about whether public prayers need to be concluded with the words, "in Jesus' name." Some Christians say, if you don't say those words, you are disobeying the teachings of Scripture and you are denying Jesus.
Folks that take this position often pray "in Jesus' name" before gathered audiences that include Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, and atheists. Naturally, the non-Christians are offended, and folks like me feel really uncomfortable.
Let me let you in on a secret: while the New Testament does teach praying in Jesus' name, not a single prayer in the New Testament includes the words "in Jesus' name." Obviously praying in Jesus' name is not about using the words.
Don't let anyone tell you it is necessary to end prayer with those words in public gatherings.
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