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The Kneeling Christian
Since its first publication, The Kneeling Christian has helped hundreds of thousands of believers discover the key to God's treasure house of blessing. This classic book on prayer, written by 'An Unknown Author' sometime before the 1930's, answers the most basic and often-asked questions Christians have about prayer: "How shall I pray?", "What is prayer?", "Must I agonize?", "Does God always answer prayer?", "Who may pray?" Prayer, though an essential part of Christian experience, remains mysterious to many believers. The author set about to familiarize Christians with the source of power available to them through prayer. According to The Kneeling Christian, "All real growth in the spiritual life--all victory over temptation, all confidence and peace in the presence of difficulties and dangers, all repose of spirit in times of great disappointment or loss, all habitual communion with God--depends on the practice of secret prayer." This powerful, time-tested book points the way toward communion with God and all the life-changing benefits that derive from it.
128 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1930
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
March 12, 2017
A good friend recommended this book to me some time ago, but mentioned it was hard to find, so I was very excited when I came across a copy at a church sale last fall. I consider this one of the best teaching books I've ever read, and one I'm sure I'll keep coming back to in the future. It's a fairly short, but extremely powerful treatise on prayer, a topic absolutely central to the Christian life, but too often sadly neglected.
For starters, I am very impressed that the author chose to remain anonymous. This was quite an unusual choice (almost unheard-of, in fact, as far as I know) but it really contributes to the power of the book. Knowing that it was written, not for the fame, or financial gain of the author, but that the Church might receive the benefit of the teaching, and that God might be glorified, really amplifies the message.
In line with the author's humility in embracing anonymity, is his style of teaching, which I would describe as exceptionally meek and gentle. I have read teaching books where the doctrine was generally quite good, but was presented in a kind of "lecturing" tone, which I can imagine that more sensitive readers would find discouraging. Not so with this book: the author passes up every opportunity to "browbeat" his audience, bringing encouragement, instead of condemnation.
On the whole, I felt that the author did an excellent job of clearly showing us prayer for what it truly is: the conversation of a child with his Father. If only we would learn to come to God in this way, in simple faith, without formulas and preconceived notions, I honestly believe we would find the results to be utterly amazing.
For starters, I am very impressed that the author chose to remain anonymous. This was quite an unusual choice (almost unheard-of, in fact, as far as I know) but it really contributes to the power of the book. Knowing that it was written, not for the fame, or financial gain of the author, but that the Church might receive the benefit of the teaching, and that God might be glorified, really amplifies the message.
In line with the author's humility in embracing anonymity, is his style of teaching, which I would describe as exceptionally meek and gentle. I have read teaching books where the doctrine was generally quite good, but was presented in a kind of "lecturing" tone, which I can imagine that more sensitive readers would find discouraging. Not so with this book: the author passes up every opportunity to "browbeat" his audience, bringing encouragement, instead of condemnation.
On the whole, I felt that the author did an excellent job of clearly showing us prayer for what it truly is: the conversation of a child with his Father. If only we would learn to come to God in this way, in simple faith, without formulas and preconceived notions, I honestly believe we would find the results to be utterly amazing.
August 12, 2012
I haven't even finished it yet, but I can tell you already it's going to be a 5 star book.
Ok finished...
What an amazing book!! It's based on John 15 in the Bible regarding the parable of the vine and the branches. It's about Jesus' promise that if you love God and seek His will, and follow Jesus example and commands, then what you ask in Jesus' name will be granted because it will glorify God.
"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples."
John 15:7-8 NIV
The entire book highlights the limitless power at the hands of Jesus' diciples, in so far as, it is in God's will. ANYTHING God wants accomplished WILL be accomplished in Jesus' name for the Glory of God.
A few quotes from the book:
"Why, the wonder is not that we pray so little, but that we can ever get up from our knees if we realize our own need; the needs of our home and our loved ones; the needs of our pastor and the church; the needs of our city--of our country--of the heathen..."
"The Lord Jesus, now in the heavenlies, beckons to us to fall upon our knees and claim the riches of His grace."
"Isn't it just splendid to know that by our prayers we can bring down showers of blessing upon India, or Africa, or China, just as readily as we can get the few drops needed for our own little plot?"
"Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God for things agreeable to His will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgement of His mercies."
This is such a wonderful book!! Definitely worth reading!!! If you don't beleive you can change the world through prayer after reading this book....then you didn't pay attention.
Ok finished...
What an amazing book!! It's based on John 15 in the Bible regarding the parable of the vine and the branches. It's about Jesus' promise that if you love God and seek His will, and follow Jesus example and commands, then what you ask in Jesus' name will be granted because it will glorify God.
"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples."
John 15:7-8 NIV
The entire book highlights the limitless power at the hands of Jesus' diciples, in so far as, it is in God's will. ANYTHING God wants accomplished WILL be accomplished in Jesus' name for the Glory of God.
A few quotes from the book:
"Why, the wonder is not that we pray so little, but that we can ever get up from our knees if we realize our own need; the needs of our home and our loved ones; the needs of our pastor and the church; the needs of our city--of our country--of the heathen..."
"The Lord Jesus, now in the heavenlies, beckons to us to fall upon our knees and claim the riches of His grace."
"Isn't it just splendid to know that by our prayers we can bring down showers of blessing upon India, or Africa, or China, just as readily as we can get the few drops needed for our own little plot?"
"Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God for things agreeable to His will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgement of His mercies."
This is such a wonderful book!! Definitely worth reading!!! If you don't beleive you can change the world through prayer after reading this book....then you didn't pay attention.
May 11, 2024
Wow! I loved this.
Practical, straight to the point, convicting, scripture-based, etc.! I think every believer should read this. I’ll more than likely be reading it again soon!
10 May 2024 update:
So good. No book written by man has ever convicted me so much as this one.
Practical, straight to the point, convicting, scripture-based, etc.! I think every believer should read this. I’ll more than likely be reading it again soon!
10 May 2024 update:
So good. No book written by man has ever convicted me so much as this one.
May 27, 2009
Powerful. It will drive you to your knees. Loved it cover to coved. Probably the first book after my baptism in 2004 and it drove me to a new spiritual level.
November 20, 2014
For a Christian classic, I had never heard of this book before but I am ever so glad I found it here in the recommended section on Goodreads.
The book says its written by an 'Unknown Christian', but on googling this book you can easily look up who has, it is claims, written it.
This book is unashamedly about prayer. Its a fireball of encouragement to get you on your knees.
This book isn't simply the about putting your hands together and hoping for the best, oh no, this book means business!
The author goes to great lengths to drive home to every man or woman who has made a commitment to Christ, their responsibility to pray and the effects of what happens when you seek the Lord with all your heart, soul and mind.
I know prayer is vital and I know I have a long way to go but I am determined to seek the face of the Lord and this has been such a wonderful help, I simply cannot remove it from my Kindle, ever!
The book gives details of the result of prayer in the lives of our family, friends, nations and revivals. Want to see more of God? More prayer! Want to see family and friends save? More prayer! Want to see a nation turn back to God? More prayer.
Yes, yes, Louisa I know all this, so I thought did I but this book really humbles you to realise the relationship we can have with the father and the change he wants to bring through us, us!
Being steadfast and committed to enter into his presence without formula but relying solely on the inspiration of the Holy Spirit is the only way we will pray what is on the father's heart not the way this world can force or manipulate or trick us into. We may think that praying for certain things is right, but God ultimately knows what we SHOULD and NEED to be praying for. The real, nitty gritty, earth shattering, heaven rending prayers that we know not how to pray for but the Holy Spirit can.
This book encourages you to get to KNOW your father more through prayer, know where he wants you to go and more than that he'll go with you.
I highly recommend this book, let's start some spiritual fires in our hearts!
The book says its written by an 'Unknown Christian', but on googling this book you can easily look up who has, it is claims, written it.
This book is unashamedly about prayer. Its a fireball of encouragement to get you on your knees.
This book isn't simply the about putting your hands together and hoping for the best, oh no, this book means business!
The author goes to great lengths to drive home to every man or woman who has made a commitment to Christ, their responsibility to pray and the effects of what happens when you seek the Lord with all your heart, soul and mind.
I know prayer is vital and I know I have a long way to go but I am determined to seek the face of the Lord and this has been such a wonderful help, I simply cannot remove it from my Kindle, ever!
The book gives details of the result of prayer in the lives of our family, friends, nations and revivals. Want to see more of God? More prayer! Want to see family and friends save? More prayer! Want to see a nation turn back to God? More prayer.
Yes, yes, Louisa I know all this, so I thought did I but this book really humbles you to realise the relationship we can have with the father and the change he wants to bring through us, us!
Being steadfast and committed to enter into his presence without formula but relying solely on the inspiration of the Holy Spirit is the only way we will pray what is on the father's heart not the way this world can force or manipulate or trick us into. We may think that praying for certain things is right, but God ultimately knows what we SHOULD and NEED to be praying for. The real, nitty gritty, earth shattering, heaven rending prayers that we know not how to pray for but the Holy Spirit can.
This book encourages you to get to KNOW your father more through prayer, know where he wants you to go and more than that he'll go with you.
I highly recommend this book, let's start some spiritual fires in our hearts!
October 13, 2023
I read this book because of a book club proposal. I read the first two chapters without too much enthusiasm (because of some discussions with my friends), but then I found myself already having a wrong prejudice about the author and I did the same mistake as Lizzy did about Darcy in Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen.
Then I changed the perspective from which I looked at the book and focused on learning new things, and not just criticizing the book. Some friends were disappointed and stopped reading the book.
I gave it 4 stars because I personally learned some useful things and I didn't want to be influenced by them in rating this book.
Then I changed the perspective from which I looked at the book and focused on learning new things, and not just criticizing the book. Some friends were disappointed and stopped reading the book.
I gave it 4 stars because I personally learned some useful things and I didn't want to be influenced by them in rating this book.
February 10, 2022
This book is now nearly a hundred years old. While it is still a great book on prayer, at times that age shows. I feel like at least half the illustrations Richardson uses I have heard before, some of them many times before. But to be fair, they were probably fairly new when he first wrote them. Also to be fair, since my dad was a pastor it could also have meant he had read this book a time or two himself. The title of this book could be a fair description of both my father and my grandmother. And since we are also Richardsons...
Anyways, anyone who enjoys reading the likes of Andrew Murray, EM Bounds, and Leonard Ravenhill would probably find this book right in their wheelhouse. (And anyone who doesn't enjoy reading such authors should probably repent and do a serious heart check.)
A few quotes...
“Satan laughs at our toiling, mocks at our wisdom, but trembles when we pray.”
"The only petition recorded of Paul seeking something for his own individual need was refused!"
"The highest form of prayer is not, “Thy way, O God, not mine,” but “My way, O God, is Thine.”
"Fellow Christian, is it because we pray so little that we criticize so much?"
"The momentous question for you and me is not, however, “How does God answer prayer?” The question is, “Do I really pray?”
"We cannot say with any confidence or certainty, I shall not want, unless we can say, with confidence and certainty, The Lord is my Shepherd."
Anyways, anyone who enjoys reading the likes of Andrew Murray, EM Bounds, and Leonard Ravenhill would probably find this book right in their wheelhouse. (And anyone who doesn't enjoy reading such authors should probably repent and do a serious heart check.)
A few quotes...
“Satan laughs at our toiling, mocks at our wisdom, but trembles when we pray.”
"The only petition recorded of Paul seeking something for his own individual need was refused!"
"The highest form of prayer is not, “Thy way, O God, not mine,” but “My way, O God, is Thine.”
"Fellow Christian, is it because we pray so little that we criticize so much?"
"The momentous question for you and me is not, however, “How does God answer prayer?” The question is, “Do I really pray?”
"We cannot say with any confidence or certainty, I shall not want, unless we can say, with confidence and certainty, The Lord is my Shepherd."
November 28, 2021
This is a rare book - because if I could, I'd give it ten stars not just five. I have never said that about a book before, but I feel so strongly about this one, I could buy ten copies and start giving them away to people I love. It is the best book about prayer I've ever read.
The Kneeling Christian is a classic. It was originally published anonymously in the 1920's or early 1930's. The humble author wanted to be called "An Unknown Christian" but now we know he was probably Albert Ernest Richardson, an Anglican priest and missionary. Every chapter of this book was enlightening and worth reading.
The Kneeling Christian is a classic. It was originally published anonymously in the 1920's or early 1930's. The humble author wanted to be called "An Unknown Christian" but now we know he was probably Albert Ernest Richardson, an Anglican priest and missionary. Every chapter of this book was enlightening and worth reading.
July 1, 2021
Every believer needs to read this book.
It gives a picture of prayer that we need to grasp. It inspires the reader with a glimpse of heavenly perspective. Our God is faithful. Are we praying?
It gives a picture of prayer that we need to grasp. It inspires the reader with a glimpse of heavenly perspective. Our God is faithful. Are we praying?
February 2, 2014
When I was in Bible college we read dozens of books on prayer. Without a doubt this is the best. I have read it several times. Each time I read it I am challenged to reignite my prayer life and my wonder for God is awakened. This is a must read!
July 29, 2008
This book was so amazing and inspiring that I purchased my own copy and have read it more than once.
November 3, 2010
It is a must read for anyone serious about prayer.
July 7, 2013
One of the most well written books on prayer. Simply written with a concise, accessible way of deepening your relationship with God.
January 10, 2015
Hands down the most insightful book on prayer that I've ever read! I could ponder on one single sentence for an entire day.
May 1, 2024
Great book. A couple of the points felt a little confusing to me as I don’t think unanswered prayer is as black and white as he made it out to be. But overall I’m feeling very challenged in the way that I pray and will likely read this again!
March 20, 2025
Ein richtig gutes Buch über Gebet. Es regt dazu an, sein eigenes Gebetsleben zu reflektieren. Es macht einem bewusst, wie viel Macht Gebet hat und wie oft wir es unterschätzen. Ein Buch, das man nicht nur ein mal lesen sollte. Absolute Empfehlung!
December 29, 2012
"'Pray' is an invitation to be accepted rather than a command to be obeyed." What a privilege to go to God with everything and experience His love and power as he speaks with us and answers us. The book, "The Kneeling Christian" teaches us what the Bible says about prayer, and how we can know God and His plan for us better through prayer. I loved this book, and will read it again and again! Thanks, Mark, for recommending it.
July 18, 2021
This is definitely an older book, but while small in size and outdated in language, it packs a punch. I found myself deeply convicted about how little time I spend in intentional, intense intercession… and while that used to be much more a part of my life, I’ve drifted away from it. So while this book was fairly simple and at times boring, it was used by God to draw me back to carving out time in my day and my week for intercession.
November 2, 2010
One amazing book that one must read before one's death!
Just amazing.. never read such stuff.. never in my life..
Just amazing.. never read such stuff.. never in my life..
January 9, 2015
Consider Reading
Consider reading The Kneeling Christian, it's an old book but I think it fits perfectly even for this age. GOoD!
Consider reading The Kneeling Christian, it's an old book but I think it fits perfectly even for this age. GOoD!
December 7, 2021
Read this again as the Lord has been taking me on a deep dive into the topic of prayer this year. This is one of the very best books I've read on this topic. Very good.
December 23, 2023
Cons:
- a few phrases used occasionally that I think can be theologically confusing for new Christians, such as "God needs our prayers", or "When man prays, it is God's opportunity" (p. 52). I think the gist is clear but the phrasing could sound like its undermining God's sovereignty.
- bit of a blanket statement of "if you don't hear from God, it's your fault"; see pros, but I do wish it was qualified more, because I think there are times when a period of feeling abandoned is just a trial for the growing of faith, not necessarily a reflection of sin.
- a few instances where I think the Scripture passage cited isn't exactly saying what he is using it to say, and a few anecdotes where the interpretation of some event seems to be a bit dubious (e.g. the case of the orphanage probably warrants more discussion?)
Pros: Overall would highly recommend, has strengthened my prayer life
- a very good reminder to pray, and very edifying read
- lots of Scripture
- clear prose
- prayer should come from a place of praise because a recognition of God's power and glory leads to faith which is key in prayer.
- good emphasis on praying in alignment with God's will
- helpful writing on how the Holy Spirit prays for us, and Jesus intercedes for us, and the Father's attitude towards prayer
- There's this idea that if you feel like God isn't hearing your prayers, there is likely sin in your life that is blocking the connection; this idea is biblical and often under-preached in modern Christianity, because nobody wants to call out someone who is praying or struggling as bearing the blame of sin, but we all are sinful, and God is of course holy; but see con above.
Couple haphazardly selected quotes I like:
- "My belief is that men so seldom speak to others about their spiritual condition [i.e. evangelization] because they pray so little for them." (p. 105)
- "But surely, if we get a glimpse of the glorious majesty of our Lord and the wonders of His love and grace, unbelief and doubt will vanish away as mists before the rising sun?" (p. 111)
- a few phrases used occasionally that I think can be theologically confusing for new Christians, such as "God needs our prayers", or "When man prays, it is God's opportunity" (p. 52). I think the gist is clear but the phrasing could sound like its undermining God's sovereignty.
- bit of a blanket statement of "if you don't hear from God, it's your fault"; see pros, but I do wish it was qualified more, because I think there are times when a period of feeling abandoned is just a trial for the growing of faith, not necessarily a reflection of sin.
- a few instances where I think the Scripture passage cited isn't exactly saying what he is using it to say, and a few anecdotes where the interpretation of some event seems to be a bit dubious (e.g. the case of the orphanage probably warrants more discussion?)
Pros: Overall would highly recommend, has strengthened my prayer life
- a very good reminder to pray, and very edifying read
- lots of Scripture
- clear prose
- prayer should come from a place of praise because a recognition of God's power and glory leads to faith which is key in prayer.
- good emphasis on praying in alignment with God's will
- helpful writing on how the Holy Spirit prays for us, and Jesus intercedes for us, and the Father's attitude towards prayer
- There's this idea that if you feel like God isn't hearing your prayers, there is likely sin in your life that is blocking the connection; this idea is biblical and often under-preached in modern Christianity, because nobody wants to call out someone who is praying or struggling as bearing the blame of sin, but we all are sinful, and God is of course holy; but see con above.
Couple haphazardly selected quotes I like:
- "My belief is that men so seldom speak to others about their spiritual condition [i.e. evangelization] because they pray so little for them." (p. 105)
- "But surely, if we get a glimpse of the glorious majesty of our Lord and the wonders of His love and grace, unbelief and doubt will vanish away as mists before the rising sun?" (p. 111)
January 25, 2018
This short work packs a depth of spirituality that left me hungering for more intimacy in my prayer life. The author of this classic is unknown but the book has influenced many to press into the presence of God.
The strengths of the work are its devotional fervor, inspiring anecdotes from the lives of praying saints, simplistic concepts that are easily applied and singular focus of calling us all to pray as God’s children. Each chapter will inspire you to go deeper in intimacy with the Father.
As someone who reads a great deal on prayer, I have found few works on the subject that could be so easily used as a foundation text for teaching or discipleship. It is imminently practical, uplifting and, yet, demanding all at the same time. These twelve chapters will provoke you if you take time to dwell on the truths they contain.
The strengths of the work are its devotional fervor, inspiring anecdotes from the lives of praying saints, simplistic concepts that are easily applied and singular focus of calling us all to pray as God’s children. Each chapter will inspire you to go deeper in intimacy with the Father.
As someone who reads a great deal on prayer, I have found few works on the subject that could be so easily used as a foundation text for teaching or discipleship. It is imminently practical, uplifting and, yet, demanding all at the same time. These twelve chapters will provoke you if you take time to dwell on the truths they contain.
December 11, 2017
This is an incredible book on prayer. The unknown author makes the point that while there is no higher calling for the christian than a life of prayer, he also points out that it just also lead to action for God. If your prayer llfe needs revitalization, this classic will open your eyes.
April 26, 2020
Both encouraging and challenging
September 14, 2025
One of the best books on prayer!
It is well written and takes the reader through the many aspects of prayer. If you are wanting to improve your prayer life then would absolutely recommend this wonderful book.
It is well written and takes the reader through the many aspects of prayer. If you are wanting to improve your prayer life then would absolutely recommend this wonderful book.
December 14, 2024
Great book on describing the essence of prayer. Simple but powerful.
July 28, 2014
I had this book recommended to me by a few folks and was available as a free pdf online so I slotted it into my “to read” list. Among the many, many areas where I could grow in my Christian walk, prayer stands out as one that I feel I need the most help in. And so I eagerly dove into this book…but petered out pretty quick. I mainly finished it just to finish it. It was probably a combination of the style and approach of the book. Additionally, there were a few things that the author suggested about prayer that I wasn’t sure I agreed with that seemed to suggest that every time a prayer is unanswered it must be because of some fault within the prayer. Seemed like echoes of Job’s friends to me.
Now, to be fair, there were many more quotes that I actually liked a lot than ones I disagreed with. But there was enough about the book that I didn’t enjoy or connect with for me to only rate it “okay” (i.e. 3 stars).
Now, to be fair, there were many more quotes that I actually liked a lot than ones I disagreed with. But there was enough about the book that I didn’t enjoy or connect with for me to only rate it “okay” (i.e. 3 stars).
January 16, 2016
Wisdom Explained
I've read this book over six times and get something new each time. Refreshingly truthful, biblically factual and reassuring. Fully explained and interesting. A must read for all.
I've read this book over six times and get something new each time. Refreshingly truthful, biblically factual and reassuring. Fully explained and interesting. A must read for all.
August 15, 2016
So compelling
Do I really pray? This book opened my eyes! Must read for the serious person who wants to pray, really pray!
Do I really pray? This book opened my eyes! Must read for the serious person who wants to pray, really pray!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews