Westminster Shorter Catechism · Question 100 of 107
What doth the preface of the Lord’s prayer teach us?
A.The preface of the Lord’s prayer, which is, Our Father which art in heaven, teacheth us to draw near to God with all holy reverence and confidence, as children to a father able and ready to help us; and that we should pray with and for others.
Which Bible passages support this answer?
The Westminster Assembly attached these Scripture proofs to answer 100. Read them together and ask what each one shows about the answer.
- Matthew 6:9
So pray this way: “Our Father in heaven, may your name be honored, (NET)
- Romans 8:15
For you did not receive the spirit of slavery leading again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, “Abba, Father.” (NET)
- Luke 11:13
If you then, although you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (NET)
- Acts 12:5
So Peter was kept in prison, but those in the church were earnestly praying to God for him. (NET)
- 1 Timothy 2:1-2
1First of all, then, I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanks be offered on behalf of all people, 2even for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. (NET)
What does this answer mean?
The preface, 'Our Father which art in heaven', teaches us to draw near to God with holy reverence and confidence, as children come to a father who is able and ready to help. The word 'our' teaches us to pray with and for others too.
What can we ask our children?
- What is good about calling God 'Father'?
- Why does it matter that he is 'in heaven'?
- Who can we pray for besides ourselves?
Can I print this question?
Yes. Every printable here is free for home, church and co-op use. Press Print on any of these pages for a clean sheet.
- Memory card for question 100 (fold-over card, question on the front)
- Copywork page for question 100 (trace, then copy)
- Memory cards for questions 91 to 100
- Copywork for questions 91 to 100
- All Westminster Shorter Catechism printables
Text: The Shorter Catechism, constitutional text of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Public domain (1647). Proof references: Scripture proofs added by the Westminster Assembly, as transcribed by The Westminster Standard. Scripture quotations are from the NET Bible; see permissions.
Checked against a second edition on November 15, 2026. Explanation and questions by Household Theology Press. Last updated November 15, 2026.