In Mark 11.20-25 Jesus is following up on something that happened back in vv.12-14. A fig tree that bore no fruit was found to be withered and the disciples were shocked (v.21). Jesus then explains and says, simply, that everything is possible for one who truly believes and lacks doubt (vv.23-23). He then says this:
“For this reason I tell you, whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”
(v.24)
So is this a name-and-claim, have-all-you-want kind of verse?
Perhaps it is when detached from context. That’s not how we read the Bible though, is it?
The kind of faith Jesus is talking about in vv.22-23 is an unwavering trust in God that includes His goodness and His provision.
The kind of faith Jesus is talking about in vv.22-23 already knows that prayer and petitions (v.24) must fall in line with God’s revealed will to us (Mark 14.36, Matthew 6.9-10, for example).
The kind of faith Jesus is talking about already knows that God exists for His own glory, not yours, and will pray accordingly ¹.
What do we do with Mark 11.24 then? Is it name-and-claim?
No, but it is a great promise that when we have the kind of unbending trust in God’s goodness and provision that Jesus is talking about here, then we do know that whatever we pray for will be ours.
If we’re praying for new opportunities, help, healing, reconciliation, forgiveness, or more faith, then we know that a good, loving, Sovereign God who works all things together for His glory and our good will move in such as way as to prove His Word true (Romans 8.26-30).
Today then, pray as if you know that God will answer!
¹ – https://jamestravis.net/2020/06/17/pray-big-prayers-glory/
James Travis 