5:7-9 Is this teaching that Jesus prayed to be saved from physical death?
5:7-9 Is this teaching that Jesus prayed to be saved from physical death?
No, Jesus did not fear physical death. Scriptures teach that He looked forward to dying (CP Jn 2:4; 10:11, 15; 12:23-24; 13:1).
Jesus knew that He would be raised up to life again (CP Psa 16:10 with Ac 2:25-28, 31; Mt 20:18-19; Mk 9:31; 10:33-34; Lu 9:22; 13:32; 18:33; Jn 11:25).
But, as the time to die drew near Jesus experienced extreme mental anguish and despair. He dreaded what was going to happen (CP Mt 26:36-44; Mk 14:32-36; Lu 22:39-44).
Jesus' agony in the garden had nothing to do with the fear of dying though, for He had resolutely set Himself to die (CP Isa 50:6-7; Mt 20:28; Mk 10:32-34, 45; Lu 9:51; Jn 12:27; 15:13).
Out Lord's agony in the garden was because He knew that within hours the full cup of divine fury against sin would be His to drink; He would bear the punishment for sin by being separated from God (CP Isa 53:10-12 with Psa 22:1; Mt 26:36-44; 27:45-46 (Mk 15:33-34); 2Cor 5:21).
See also comments on Mt 26:36-44, 27:45-46 and Lu 22:44.