Prayers of Jesus in the Bible
Quick Summary
The prayers of Jesus in the Bible reveal his deep communion with the Father, his compassion for others, and his complete trust in God's will. From solitary mountain prayers to his final words on the cross, these moments give profound insight into his heart and mission.
Introduction
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus prays often. His prayers are not mere formalities or rituals—they are moments of intimacy, grief, surrender, and praise. Whether in public or private, before miracles or in solitude, Jesus models what it means to rely on God fully. This post explores the recorded prayers of Jesus in the New Testament, highlighting their context, significance, and enduring meaning.
Full List of Jesus’ Prayers in the Bible
1. Thanksgiving to the Father — Matthew 11:25–26; Luke 10:21
Jesus praises the Father for revealing truths to the humble and childlike. This prayer underscores God’s upside-down Kingdom and Jesus' delight in divine revelation.
"I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth..."
2. At Lazarus’s Tomb — John 11:41–42
Before raising Lazarus, Jesus gives thanks publicly so that those around him would believe.
“Father, I thank you for having heard me...”
This prayer is as much for the benefit of onlookers as it is a genuine expression of communion.
3. High Priestly Prayer — John 17:1–26
Perhaps the most extended and intimate prayer in the Gospels, Jesus prays for his glorification, for his disciples, and for all future believers. He asks for unity, protection, and sanctification.
“Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son...”
This prayer reveals Jesus' heart for the Church and his desire that believers reflect God's glory.
4. Gethsemane — Matthew 26:36–46; Mark 14:32–42; Luke 22:39–46
On the eve of his crucifixion, Jesus prays in anguish, asking that the cup pass from him—yet yielding fully to the Father’s will.
"Not what I want but what you want."
This raw, emotional prayer models honest lament and surrender.
5. On the Cross: "Father, forgive them" — Luke 23:34
Jesus intercedes for those crucifying him.
“Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”
This prayer reveals divine mercy in the midst of suffering.
6. On the Cross: "My God, why have you forsaken me?" — Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34
Quoting Psalm 22, Jesus voices the agony of abandonment.
“Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?”
This is one of the most haunting prayers, expressing the depth of Jesus’ suffering.
7. On the Cross: "Into your hands I commit my spirit" — Luke 23:46
Jesus’ final words are a quotation of Psalm 31:5, expressing trust.
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”
Even in death, Jesus entrusts himself to the Father.
8. At the Last Supper — Luke 22:17–19
Though not a lengthy prayer, Jesus gives thanks before breaking bread and sharing the cup.
“Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks...”
This act of gratitude becomes the foundation of Christian Eucharist.
9. Prayer for Peter — Luke 22:31–32
Jesus tells Peter he has prayed for his faith to remain strong despite impending failure.
"But I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail."
A personal, pastoral intercession.
10. Prayer in Solitude — Luke 5:16; Mark 1:35; Matthew 14:23
Although these are not word-for-word prayers, the Gospels repeatedly note Jesus withdrawing to pray alone.
"He would withdraw to deserted places and pray."
These underscore his rhythm of solitude and spiritual sustenance.
11. Prayer Before Choosing the Twelve — Luke 6:12
Jesus spends an entire night in prayer before selecting his apostles.
"He went out to the mountain to pray; and he spent the night in prayer to God."
This shows how major decisions were rooted in communion with God.
12. Prayer at His Baptism — Luke 3:21–22
As Jesus is baptized, he is praying—and the Spirit descends upon him.
“Jesus also had been baptized and was praying...”
This moment marks the beginning of his public ministry.
13. Prayer at the Transfiguration — Luke 9:28–29
Jesus is praying when he is transfigured, and God’s voice affirms his identity.
“And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed...”
Prayer becomes a doorway to divine glory.
Theological Meaning of Jesus’ Prayers
Trust and Intimacy
Jesus always addressed God as “Father,” highlighting both reverence and intimacy. His consistent return to prayer shows deep trust in God’s provision, will, and presence.
Intercession
Jesus often prays for others—his disciples, the crowds, even his enemies. His prayers reveal a heart deeply committed to others' well-being and spiritual flourishing.
Lament and Surrender
The prayers in Gethsemane and on the cross demonstrate the depth of Jesus' anguish. Yet, even in his pain, Jesus doesn't turn away from God—he brings his sorrow directly to the Father.
Pattern for Discipleship
Jesus' prayer life offers a model for believers: gratitude, solitude, honesty, intercession, and surrender. Prayer is not escape—it’s the foundation for faithful action.
Book Recommendations
"The Prayers of Jesus: Listening to and Learning from Our Savior" by Mark Jones – A theological and devotional exploration of Jesus’ prayer life.
"Jesus and the Eyewitnesses" by Richard Bauckham – Offers context for how Jesus’ words, including his prayers, were remembered and recorded.
"The Death of the Messiah" by Raymond E. Brown – An in-depth analysis of Jesus’ passion, including his prayers on the cross.
FAQ
How many prayers of Jesus are recorded in the Bible?
Depending on how we define “prayer,” there are at least 12–14 distinct prayers recorded in the Gospels, plus numerous references to Jesus praying.
Why did Jesus pray if he is God?
In his incarnate life, Jesus modeled perfect dependence on the Father. His prayers are expressions of his full humanity, relationship with God, and alignment with the divine will.
What is the most famous prayer of Jesus?
The “High Priestly Prayer” in John 17 and the prayers on the cross are among the most theologically rich and widely studied.
