If two of you agree…
If two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father.
Jesus
This promise is a little odd. It even seems untrue. We know that, many times, two people, even two priests or two bishops have prayed for things that do not seem to be granted. Enemies of the faith sometimes point to this promise, and the fact that our requests seem to be unheard, as evidence that Jesus is a liar, or the scriptures are not trustworthy.
Jesus is not a liar.
The scriptures are trustworthy.
God answers the prayers of all God’s children, but this promise is for the apostles when they ask for something related to church discipline, and the forgiveness of sins. They are given the authority to bind and to loose laws of the church, and they can hold sins unforgiven, or forgive them. In these matters, they have authority. But, even in these matters where the promise applies, sometimes their requests are not granted.
Our apostles are accountable to one another, which we see by the promise being made to two or more bishops praying together. They are also accountable to God. Saint John Chrysostom says that if their prayerful requests are not granted, it is first because they ask things that are not expedient or appropriate. Secondly, because they are not in a good state themselves. Thirdly, because they pray seeking vengeance. And fourthly, because they seek mercy for sinners who have not repented. The last is a little terrifying, but it is so beautiful that we can trust the church, even when we do not understand. We can trust in the Church, because it is not in men that we trust, but in God. God is in control, and the gates of hell will not stand against the church.
So, this promise is not really for us. If our requests are not granted, it does not mean God is a liar. We do not need to be disturbed if we ask for something in prayer, and do not receive it. Be persistent in prayer. Sometimes, the answer is not yet visible. God is faithful to answer prayer, and to change our hearts to ask rightly, if we are asking wrongly. St John Chrysostom’s measuring-stick is helpful. Am I asking for something prudent? Am I in a state of grace? Am I asking from love? If I am asking for another, am I asking for something they are prepared to receive?
