The preface to the printed version (by "W.T") underlines some of the controversial content, for example comparing the Protestant reformers to Christ. Both were attacked as "innovators" when, according to the preface, they were only teaching the true and ancient doctrines. In this way, the "Prayer" is mustered up as an old proto-Protestant English text showing the truth and putatively traditional basis of Protestant teachings. The text of the "Prayer" echoes other reformist texts, such as "Rede Me and Be Nott Wrothe".