Mark 14:32–42 [NLT] Big Idea — Jesus let his will die in the garden so He could bring us life at the cross. Hebrews 4:15 (NLT) This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. Jesus faced the cup of . Mark 14:32-34,37,40-42 (NLT) They went to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, “Sit here while I go and pray.” 33 He took Peter, James, and John with him,...34 Stay here and keep watch with me.” 37 Then he returned and found the disciples asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? 40 When he returned to them again, he found them sleeping, for they couldn’t keep their eyes open. And they didn’t know what to say. 41 When he returned to them the third time, he said, “Go ahead and sleep. Have your rest. But no—the time has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Up, let’s be going. Look, my betrayer is here!” …and he became deeply troubled and distressed. He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. 35 He went on a little farther and fell to the ground… 35b He prayed that, if it were possible, the awful hour awaiting him might pass him by. 36 “Abba, Father,” he cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Jesus faced the test of . 36b …Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Jesus’ will had to die in garden before he could offer new life on the cross. Jesus’ prayer wasn’t preparation for his battle, it WAS the battle. Jesus’ surrender in secret produced his power in public. Jesus faced the risk of . 38 Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” Why was it necessary for Jesus to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters? Hebrews 2:17–18 (NLT) Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. 18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested. WHAT NOW? Notice that you’re never alone in your suffering & testing. SONG: Rock, Road and the Weeds John Mark McMillan ‧ 2020 Don’t allow yourself to face this test alone. Continuing The Conversation 1 Have you felt completely alone during a tough time? How does knowing Jesus also felt abandoned in His suffering change how you see those moments in your life? 2. When Jesus was overwhelmed, He fell to the ground and cried out to the Father (Mark 14:35–36). What does that teach you about how to handle your own pain or fear? Do you usually run to Jesus first? 3. Abiding means staying close & full dependence on Jesus when life gets hard — through prayer, Scripture, community or worship. What might need to change so your connection with Him grows deeper during trials?