Endnote 5 – Why Doesn’t God Answer Prayers?

A number of commentators understand “I chose you” and “you should go” as a reference to the mission of the apostles (see the list cited approvingly by George R. Beasley-Murray, John, Word Biblical Commentary 36 [Waco: Word Books, 1987], p. 275), which would imply that the saying is not of general application to all believers. In context however, the choice does not take the apostles from among the disciples in general, but rather takes the followers of Jesus from the world. In itself “to go” does not suggest an apostolic mission, but if this meaning is retained, we have to say that the apostles serve as exemplars for all believers. Their mission is one that all Christians must carry out. The petition, in consequence, is not limited in any way. It is the prayer of all Christians.