Six Petitions???

[kevin.carroll]

Anybody know why the WLC and HC refer to six petitions in the Lord's prayer when there are actually seven distinct requests? I was trying to figure this one out and the only thing I could come up with is that there are actually six imperatives and one subjunctive. (I know that doesn't help the non-Greek types...but I'm still asking!) Thoughts?

 

[Bill The Baptist]

I think it just depends on your definition of a petition. According to J.C. Ryle, there are 10 petitions.

 

[kevin.carroll]

I think it just depends on your definition of a petition. According to J.C. Ryle, there are 10 petitions.

Well, how non-confessional of him!

 

[hammondjones]

Oh, would that more people be familiar with the English subjunctive!

But, do you mean, why does, for example, the HC/WSC have as the 6th "And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil"

Whereas Luther's Small Catechism and the Catechism of the Catholic Church says:
The Sixth Petition - And lead us not into temptation.
The Seventh Petition - But deliver us from evil.

Good question. They also number the 10 Commandments differently. Tradition, I suppose.

 

[kevin.carroll]

Well, I was referring to the Greek subjunctive, Brandon...but yeah...you got the right verse.

 

[hammondjones]

At your service. Always here to be marginally useful.