Meaning: The quote "Prayer is commitment. We don't merely cooperate with God with certain things held back within. We, the total person, cooperate. This means that cooperation equals commitment" by E. Jones, a theologian, encompasses a profound understanding of the nature of prayer and its significance in the life of a believer. In this quote, Jones emphasizes the deep connection between prayer and commitment, highlighting the idea that genuine prayer involves wholehearted engagement and an unreserved dedication of oneself to the divine.

In essence, the quote underscores the idea that prayer is not simply a passive act of making requests or petitions to a higher power, but rather an active and wholehearted engagement with the divine. Jones suggests that when individuals pray, they should do so with their entire being, without holding back anything. This concept challenges the notion of selective cooperation with God, where certain aspects of one's life are withheld or kept separate from the act of prayer. Instead, Jones advocates for a complete and total cooperation with God, where one's entire self is involved in the act of prayer.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes the inseparable link between cooperation and commitment. It suggests that true cooperation with God necessitates a deep and unwavering commitment to the divine relationship. This aligns with the idea that prayer is not merely a transactional interaction with God, but a profound and ongoing commitment to aligning one's will and desires with the divine will.

From a theological perspective, this quote reflects the understanding that prayer is a fundamental aspect of a believer's relationship with the divine. It underscores the idea that prayer is not just a religious ritual or a means to an end, but a deeply personal and transformative practice that requires a wholehearted commitment. By framing prayer as an act of cooperation and commitment, Jones invites individuals to approach prayer as a sacred and intentional engagement with the divine.

In practical terms, this quote challenges believers to examine the sincerity and depth of their prayer life. It encourages individuals to consider whether their prayers are characterized by genuine commitment and wholehearted cooperation with God, or if there are areas of their lives that they withhold from the divine relationship. It invites believers to reflect on the level of dedication and authenticity they bring to their prayers and to consider how they can deepen their commitment to a more genuine and complete cooperation with the divine.

Overall, E. Jones' quote encapsulates a profound perspective on the nature of prayer, highlighting the inseparable connection between prayer, commitment, and cooperation with the divine. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of prayer when approached with wholehearted dedication and underscores the significance of aligning one's entire being with the act of communion with the divine.