Hebrews 5:7 does refer to Jesus’ prayers in Gethsemane, as recorded in Matthew 26:36-39. This can be inferred from the surrounding verses. In verses 1-4, the Apostle Paul describes the role and characteristics of the Jewish high priests. Starting in verse 5, Paul shifts focus to Jesus and cites Old Testament Scriptures such as Psalms 2:7 and Psalms 110:4, to demonstrate that Jesus was also a high priest ordained by God. Paul cites Jesus’ prayers in Gethsemane in verse 7 as part of a larger thought which continues through verses 8 and 9. Although difficult, Jesus’ experiences were necessary for him to learn and demonstrate obedience to God and grants him the ability to provide salvation for all of mankind. Paul’s lesson is that while the Jewish high priests facilitated forgiveness for sin for themselves and the people through sacrifices, Jesus was the fulfillment of the “picture” of the high priests. His sacrifice was entirely for the sinful mankind, as he had no sins of his own, and provides a permanent salvation for all who will, now or in the future, accept it.
Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1070: What Can We Learn From Jesus’ Final Prayers?
Absorbing the character and devotion of Jesus as he faced death
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