Column: If Jesus Was Truly God, Why Did He Have to Pray?

Published 9:52 am Monday, January 27, 2025

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By Hank Walker | Pastor at Peach City Fellowship

The question of why Jesus prayed, if He was truly God, invites deep exploration into the nature of His existence as both truly divine and truly human. This concept, known as the hypostatic union, describes how Jesus embodies both natures without confusion or separation. Understanding this helps clarify the significance of His prayers.

First, some argue for the “kenotic theory,” (from the Greek, kenosis, in Philippians 2:7) which suggests that Jesus “emptied” Himself of divine attributes during His earthly ministry. However, this theory is problematic because it implies that Jesus was not truly God while on Earth. Instead, the “hypostatic union” asserts that Jesus remained truly divine AND truly human. His prayers were not a sign of a diminished divine status but rather an expression of His true humanity.

Jesus prayed to demonstrate mankind’s need for communication with God. He showed His followers that prayer is vital to a believer’s life. His moments of prayer, such as in the Garden of Gethsemane, highlight His dependence on the Father and His commitment to fulfilling His purpose. Jesus’ need for communion with God reflects His human experience, showing us that even the Son of God valued and needed prayer.

The “two-minds” doctrine provides further insight into this question. This teaching posits that in Christ, there exist two distinct minds: one divine and one human. This allows Jesus to experience the full range of human emotions and struggles while temporarily veiling His divine knowledge. In this framework, His prayers can be seen as a genuine expression of His human will seeking alignment with the divine will. While self-limiting his access to the prerogatives of His deity, Jesus relied wholly on the Holy Spirit.

Moreover, Jesus also prayed for His disciples and future believers (John 17:1-26). His intercessory prayers demonstrate His love and concern for the elect. These prayers emphasize His role as Mediator (Priest) between man and God.

Importantly, Jesus’ prayers do not contradict His divinity but rather affirm His humanity and the importance of maintaining a relationship with God. Understanding the hypostatic union and the “two minds” of Christ enhances our comprehension of why Jesus prayed. It illustrates that prayer is essential for all, including the God-Man, as it fosters a deep connection with the Father and guides us in our spiritual journeys.

Grace and peace, y’all.

Soli Deo Gloria