Topical Encyclopedia The prayer of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, often referred to as "Let This Cup Pass Away," is a profound moment recorded in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 14:32-42, and Luke 22:39-46. This prayer reveals the depth of Jesus' humanity and His submission to the divine will, offering a powerful example of prayer and obedience for believers.Context and Setting The prayer takes place shortly after the Last Supper, as Jesus and His disciples retreat to the Garden of Gethsemane, located on the Mount of Olives. This moment occurs on the eve of Jesus' crucifixion, a time of intense emotional and spiritual turmoil. Jesus, aware of the suffering and sacrifice that lay ahead, seeks solitude to commune with the Father. The Content of the Prayer In Matthew 26:39 , Jesus prays, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." This prayer is repeated three times, emphasizing the earnestness and intensity of Jesus' supplication. The "cup" symbolizes the impending suffering, crucifixion, and the weight of humanity's sin that Jesus is about to bear. Theological Significance 1. Humanity and Divinity of Jesus: This prayer highlights the dual nature of Christ. In His humanity, Jesus experiences profound anguish and a natural desire to avoid suffering. Yet, His divinity is evident in His ultimate submission to the Father's will, demonstrating perfect obedience and trust. 2. Submission to God's Will: Jesus' prayer serves as a model for believers, illustrating the importance of aligning personal desires with God's will. Despite His distress, Jesus prioritizes the divine plan over His own comfort, embodying the essence of faithful submission. 3. The Cup of Suffering: The "cup" represents not only physical suffering but also the spiritual burden of sin and separation from the Father. Jesus' willingness to drink from this cup underscores His role as the sacrificial Lamb, fulfilling the redemptive purpose of His incarnation. 4. Strength through Prayer: In Luke 22:43 , an angel appears to strengthen Jesus, highlighting the power of prayer in times of trial. This divine assistance underscores the importance of seeking God's presence and strength in moments of weakness. Lessons for Believers The prayer in Gethsemane teaches believers about the nature of true prayer and the importance of surrendering to God's will. It encourages Christians to bring their deepest fears and desires before God, trusting in His wisdom and plan. Furthermore, it reassures believers that Jesus fully understands human suffering and intercedes on their behalf. In conclusion, the prayer "Let This Cup Pass Away" is a testament to Jesus' unwavering commitment to the Father's will and His profound love for humanity. It serves as a timeless example of faith, obedience, and the transformative power of prayer. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 26:39,42,44And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as you will. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 26:45-75 Library Shaping a Prayer on the Anvil of the Knees. Under the Olive Trees. LM Anonymous. "Let this Cup Pass from Me. " Twenty-Eighth Lesson. Father! not what I Will;' Going to Gethsemane, and Agony Therein. The Prayer of Faith. Prayer after Communion. Alone. Treatise iv. On the Lord's Prayer. The Pleading Note in Prayer Resources Why is daily prayer important? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a prayer vigil? | GotQuestions.org What are the different types of prayer? | GotQuestions.org Prayer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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