From Matthew 26
In today’s passage we see Jesus in a time of testing. He is with his closest disciples, but they offer little to no support. People are most courageous when they are afraid.
This post is part of my bible in a year series.
Passage and Comments
36 Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here, while I go over there and pray.” 37 And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” (Mt 26.36-38)
Jesus is under pressure. He seeks His Father in prayer, as is his regular practice. The disciples were given a clear signal of Jesus’ distress.
39 And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” (Mt 26.39)
The cup Jesus is referring to is spoken of a few times in Isaiah and Ezekiel. It is the cup of God’s wrath which is normally given to those who have abandoned God and disobeyed his commands. Jesus however pleases God, he has never sinned and this has never incurred God’s wrath. Jesus is drinking the cup on behalf of others.
Jesus does not look forward to experiencing God’s wrath. Typically God expressed his wrath in the Old Testament in a certain way. The violent death of those who angered him. However, Jesus is no coward. He has a strength of will and character to meet this challenge and more. If this was all that was going to happen would he fear this? Or is it also the fact he will he separated from His father during this time as well?
Jesus said, ‘not as I will, but as you will’.
40 And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? 41 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mt 26.40-41)
Jesus’ disciples on the other hand drop the ball. They have been told of his distress, but they were not there for him.
42 Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” (Mt 26.42)
Jesus said, ‘your will be done’ committing himself to His Fathers will and our salvation.
43 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy. 44 So, leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words again. 45 Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Sleep and take your rest later on. See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.” (Mt 26:43-46)
As soon as Jesus commits himself, there is no delay before it starts. Like a chain reaction, released by his and the Fathers commitment to this course of action. God’s will be done.
About Jesus
Jesus took God’s wrath in our place. It was not easy for him. Jesus is loving and brave. We see here something of his love for his Father and commitment to align his will to his Fathers. Jesus is brave, he knew in advance what this meant for him. He followed through with it regardless. Jesus fully entrusted himself to the Father, giving everything. Thank you Lord.
Copyright © Joshua Washington and thescripturesays, 2014. All Rights Reserved.
