Question 313: Do Public Prayers Violate Moshiach’s Injunction To Enter Into The Closet When We Pray?

Answer:

No. Moshiach referred to the ostentatious devotion of the Pharisees who chose a public place for their devotions, with the motive that men might see them and honour them as pious people (John 16:23). There are many intimations in the New Testament that YHVH approves of His people meeting together for prayer.