Jesus couldn't be God or coequal to the Father because he prayed to God, and one who prays cannot be divine.

Dr. Jamal Badawi's argument hinges on the premise that prayer indicates a lack of divinity. However, this perspective fails to recognize the significance of Jesus' relationship with God the Father. In Mark 14:36, Jesus addresses God as 'ABBA, FATHER,' which illustrates a profound intimacy and unique sonship that is not characteristic of a mere prophet. This personal address contradicts the Islamic view of God, who is seen as distant and not a father figure. Moreover, Jesus' prayers are not indicative of weakness or ignorance but rather demonstrate his role in the divine plan. In the Garden of Gethsemane, he submits to the Father's will, showing obedience rather than a denial of his divine nature. This submission is essential to understanding the nature of the Trinity, where Jesus, while fully divine, also fully participates in the human experience. Additionally, if one were to apply Badawi's logic consistently, it would lead to the conclusion that all prophets who pray are also not divine, which contradicts the Islamic view of their own prophets. Thus, Badawi's argument not only undermines the divinity of Jesus but also raises questions about the status of other prophets in Islam, including Muhammad, who also prayed. Therefore, the assertion that Jesus' prayer life disproves his divinity ultimately backfires, revealing deeper truths about his unique identity as the Son of God.