Have you ever thought these kind of thoughts?
I deserve this sorrow — I fail the Lord so much.
The Lord cannot still love me, for I keep doing the thing I do not want to do.
I know the Lord forgives me, but I cannot forgive myself.
When we think this way, we are forgetting “The Cup,”
the enormous sorrow Christ drank on our behalf.
He drank it all,
It is finished.
When God looks at us, His children,
no matter how we have failed Him,
He sees us in His Son and
“loves us as He has loved” Jesus. (John 17:23)
He may feel sorrow for the pain we bring to ourselves and others,
but His steadfast love never wavers.
It is not based on our performance,
but on “the Cup” Christ drank on our behalf.
And when we see how He suffered to drink that cup,
we will, perhaps,
stop thinking we need to “complete” His payment
by beating ourselves up,
or to “earn back” the love we think we have lost.
Instead, He longs for us to rest in what He did for us.
Our symbol this week is “The Cup,” which in Scripture,
symbolizes the cup of God’s wrath.
My friend Sylvia has been in a study for years taught by a wise woman named Reina who faithfully shows, each week, how the gospel permeates all of Scripture and how God wants it to permeate our hearts.
Sylvia says, “I know this — yet my default mode of works righteousness is so strong, I need it every week.” She tells of a conversation with Reina.
Reina: “Sylvia, do you feel the Lord is disappointed with you?”
Sylvia: “I’m sure He is disappointed in my sporadic quiet times.”
Reina: “Don’t do them at all this week.”
Sylvia: “What?”
Reina: “Don’t do them.”
Though perplexed, Sylvia agreed.
The next week Reina asked her if she had had quiet times.
Sylvia: “I didn’t for a few days — but I missed them, so I did.”
Reina smiled.
Sylvia got the point. She shouldn’t be meeting with the Lord to earn His approval, His love, or her righteousness — she has it all in Him.
He wants her to come to Him only because she wants to be with Him.
“Works righteousness is the default mode of the human heart.” (Luther)
“When a believer sins, it is never because God is punishing him. Jesus took it all at the cross and it is finished.” (Keller)
He drank all of The Cup.
There is no more to drink.
Highlight from Last Week:
Many of you commented on the story Keller told of the mother bird forest rangers found after a fire in Yellowstone — her body had been calcified. When they removed her, they found three live chicks underneath. This is such an illustration of the fire Christ went through to rescue us.
And it fits so well with this week’s theme, and with Jesus cry: “Oh Jerusalem, Jerusalem, would that I could gather you under my wings, but you would not listen.”
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
Monday: The Spirit is Willing
Kentucky Abbey “Gethsemani”
3. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three
disciples and why?
4. Read Mark 14:37-38
A. How did the disciples fail Him?
B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon.
C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for:
-
- A warning for their own good
- A praise concerning their spirits
- Understanding concerning their flesh
- Unconditional love
5. When you allow the Spirit to search your heart, what does He tell
you concerning any “wicked way” in you, and also, how that affects
His love for you?
Tuesday: Overcome with Horror
Kentucky Abbey
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means
“overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition
of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone
had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so?
B. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask?
C. Challenge question: How do you see a typical lament in this
prayer?
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment.
8. Read the opening of Chapter 15 in Keller’s book up to “The Wrath of
Love” and share your notes and comments.
Wednesday: The Wrath of Love
9. Read this section in Chapter 15 and share your notes and comments.
10. How would you answer someone who said, “I cannot deal with the
idea of a God of wrath?”
Thursday-Friday: The Obedience of Love
11. Read Mark 14:41-42. How does Jesus now face the horror?T
12. Read to the end of the chapter and share your notes and comments.
13. How might you turn what you’ve learned into prayer?
Saturday:
14. What is your take-a-way and why?
87 comments
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Oh, I can so strongly relate to Sylvia’s feelings of the Lord being disappointed with her!
Have you ever thought these kind of thoughts?
I deserve this sorrow — I fail the Lord so much.
The Lord cannot still love me, for I keep doing the thing I do not want to do.
Yes!! These kinds of thoughts are my default mode of thinking
I am reading Abba’s Child slowly at the suggestion of the counselor my husband and I are seeing. I am truly wanting to change my internal script of feeling unloved and insignificant. I could even more strongly relate to Sylvia since after starting my new job this week my participation here tanked!
Going from having nothing to do all day but exercise and make dinner to a week of being interviewed, hired, and then working every single day was a shock to my system.
I did follow along with the study, reading, thinking, and listening to sermons, but I do prefer doing the whole thing in an orderly fashion.
I need to be reminded that the Lord doesn’t love me less when I am not as thorough as I prefer to be.
In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
I sense the presence of the Lord in the subject matter this week and how pointedly it intersects with both my need and what He has been showing me.
I have a new job that I feel was providence for me, but the week has been seriously stressful. There was no way to leave my old job without feeling and causing some pain and no way to start a new one without stress. I have been praying that I will take responsibility for what I should and not for things that I shouldn’t and that I will be grounded in my real identity and not trying to draw my life from the approval of people.
These quotes are from Abba’s Child and, I feel like I am beginning to stick my toe in the reality that the Lord’s wings already cover me:
“We deem ourselves too inconsiderable to be used even by a God capable of miracles with no more than mud and spit. And thus our false humility shackles an otherwise omnipotent God.”
“brokenness is proper to the human condition”
Wow, Chris. I do think God has brought you. Abba’s Child is one recommended often, I think, by counselors. So common for us to believe those lies, as our default mode is so strong. Of course you are seriously stressed. The quarantine has felt a bit like a life of leisure to me, and much has been really good, but I also think I’m getting a bit lazy. I will pray for you in this job, for truth that you are so loved to permeate your heart!
Chris I loved this…“There was no way to leave my old job without feeling and causing some pain and no way to start a new one without stress.” I sometimes feel myself that I need to find something else and closer to home, but I really like my boss, the hospital system I work for and for the most part my job. So I look and send resumes and then wonder if I should just stay where I’m at for another couple years or so. Your statement helps me to know that what ever I feel I need to do, there will be pain, sorrow and uneasiness.
Also this quote…“We deem ourselves too inconsiderable to be used even by a God capable of miracles with no more than mud and spit. And thus our false humility shackles an otherwise omnipotent God.” Why do I always put God in a box thinking my problems are my own? UGH!!!
You are right, Chris, that God doesn’t love you less if you don’t complete your study in an orderly (or timely) fashion! The thought occurred to me that God didn’t design organized Bible study….all the really good studies out there – materials, books, sermons, etc….they are good and helpful, but I think we often turn them into a “burden” when we feel guilty for not keeping up. And I feel for you, going back to work full time. I’m tired when I only work about 24 hours a week. I hope you will like your new job.
Chris, I am also praying for you as you begin your new job. Of course, you are overwhelmed. It will take a while to adjust, but I hope this new job is a good fit for you. I know you will find lots of good stuff in Manning’s book. I hope it is a good help to you.
Sunday: HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY EVERYONE
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? – I loved the picture and feeling I got that even though I mess up daily, Jesus is still there with me. This is a comforting picture to me. I’ve been alone a lot in my life, where I had to do what I needed to just to survive and care for my kids. None of it was bad, but it was hard, and like the Mother bird, she put herself out there in order to let her babies flourish. Jesus does the same thing with me. It won’t matter to Him, I’m still his and he will take care of me. I loved the conversation between Sylvia and Reina. This is exactly what came to me last week. I need to not just fit my time in with Jesus, I need to want to come to him and that is what he wants as well. He doesn’t care how many boxes are checked on my list, He wants me.
2. In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how? – I have definitely felt His wings. I feel at peace, I feel more relaxed and less stressed. I know that what is happening in the world right now is serious, but I’m not dwelling on it. I don’t read story after story. I don’t listen to the things that are out there. But what I am doing is praying for the medical teams in place and for our country to get back to normal. I know some people may not understand my thougths and that’s ok because I don’t need their approval of my thoughts. I need to search and find my peace in Jesus’ wings and I really know I have.
Love hearing about the peace you are finding during this time, Julie.
Julie I am with you on the not concentrating on the virus. I know God is in control. I don’t need to fill my mind with any of the news. News agencies like big scary stories so you know that they are playing things up like never before. Our state opened partially this past week and people are beginning to return to a more normal place. I don’t got anywhere because I can’t commit to wearing those awful masks that make me sick. It’s not mandated here but if you don’t have one on people are very rude. My husband forgot one yesterday and he said he literally saw FEAR in a ladies eyes. So sad for her. I bet she watches all the scary news stories. We know how to be responsible and to stay away from others; we would never get close enough for anything to jump off of us into them (!). I’ve been wondering lately too, if you are asymptomatic then how do they know that you are the cause of someone else’s contracting it? There have not been conclusive tests up to this point; so many false positives and negatives as I understand it. Also, with respect to being tested for the antibodies (to see if you have had the virus), I have heard (dr) that the percentage of being wrong varies from company to company and only one company (Abbot) has the lowest (with a 16% false positive) rate of being able to tell you if you had the sickness. Another company reports a rate of 50%! Too many questions for my pea brain. That’s why I tend to ignore the news. I get my info on online podcasts that I believe are really trying to report facts, not fear.
I am also focusing on praying for the world, workers, parents, etc. during this unusual time we are experiencing.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I finally bought Abba’s Child….
2. In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
Perhaps. I see so many who are kinder and more thoughtful. However I also see a fearfulness I have never seen before. I am a tad concerned about the fear. I wonder (for the first time in my life) if false prophets are here and if we all have our “lamps” trimmed and burning? Strange things happening in our world for sure.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Yes I certainly can relate to Sylvia. So often I need to hear this, to be reminded that Jesus drank the cup of wrath for me, for us.
I easily forgot yesterday when I saw other moms on f.b. who poured their life in Christ to their children as I did. Yet their children as teens and adults desire Him and mine don’t. It stings deep and I have been grieving this as well as other more recent losses.
This wasn’t my desire for them. It feels like the sowing into them when they were younger through their teens has gone to waste yet I know none of it does for God’s word never comes back void. Then the very next thought is a thought of failure and God must not be happy with me-maybe I was too lenient as they got older making up for being too strict when they were younger and that coupled with their father’s issues-maybe that is why. Then I remember if there is anything good in me, anything noteworthy and any light coming out of me and onto those around me, it is Him in me not me and I need to remember to trust Him for their hearts for He can work through anyone or anything to woo them to Himself.
2. In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
Yes, I have for it has been difficult not to be able to take a break from the relationship of the one who has forgotten me. As I mentioned above, I am still grieving some losses, yet Jesus hasn’t forgotten me and won’t. He is taking me under His wings in several ways during this pandemic. The first way is through the Word-via reviewing my old memory verses. He comes to me most often this way. Also, through this Bible Study and the support of my dear friends and family.
My heart goes out to you, Rebecca. I want you to keep speaking to your soul and not listening. His Word will not return void. His mercy extends to those who love Him, from generation to generation. (Luke 1:50) He will never leave you or forsake you. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord sees them all. And I know you must have Psalm 119:147 Praying for you!
I needed to hear this 💕
You are on my heart, Rebecca, praying
Oh Rebecca….please continue to take heart, though it is hard. I get what you are saying about seeing posts of some whose children all love the Lord and are following Him….their posts and stories are glowing. And then, you feel inadequate compared to….and that is our downfall, when we compare ourselves. I have two who don’t seem to be interested in God, and it’s so easy to default to, what did I do wrong. But then, I even look at myself, who was raised in a home with no church, no talk of God, and how did I end up here? My dad didn’t become a Christian until he was in his 80’s. So I could say my parents “failed” me, yet I can’t blame them, they didn’t know Him either at that time. If God could draw me to Himself, as an adult, He will continue to pursue your children.
Rebecca, my heart goes out to you in your honest lament. You keep turning to God, in spite of your pain. You are a powerful example to us. Praying for you, my friend.
3. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three disciples and why?
Jesus asked them to come with him, to stay nearby, and to watch. He was feeling crushed, he wanted their presenceI looked up the word watch, it was helpful
1
a
: to keep vigil as a devotional exercise
b
: to be awake during the night
2
a
: to be attentive or vigilant
b
: to keep guard
3
a
: to keep someone or something under close observation
b
: to observe as a spectator
the country watched as stocks fell sharply
4
: to be expectant : WAIT
watch for the signal
4. Read Mark 14:37-38
A. How did the disciples fail Him?
They repeatedly fell asleep
B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon.
To watch and to pray, a third thing I do not see
C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for:
A warning for their own good- be on guard lest they fall into temptation
A praise concerning their spirits- their spirits were ‘willing’
Understanding concerning their flesh- The flesh is weak
Unconditional love – Jesus isn’t harsh with them, in spite of what he is suffering he is patient with their weakness
5. When you allow the Spirit to search your heart, what does He tell you concerning any “wicked way” in you, and also, how that affects His love for you?
Well this is the hard part, right? When I am irritable and impatient my go-to script is what a disappointment I am, how un-Christlike is my thought life, how I should be more like Jesus by now. But the longer I stay there beating myself up the less I bring my mess to him, He is the only remedy for my souls’ weaknesses, when I come into his presence with honesty and trust, He always welcomes and wants me…it really does seem too good to be true, this makes me weepy.
Golden from Chris:
the longer I stay there beating myself up the less I bring my mess to him, He is the only remedy for my souls’ weaknesses, when I come into his presence with honesty and trust, He always welcomes and wants me…it really does seem too good to be true, this makes me weepy.
2. During this time of Covid, oh yes, I have sensed Him keeping me under his wings. I have a greater sense of gratitude for everything God has provided. My daily time in the Word is so important. Appreciating all the ways others show kindness and seeing my husband and family in a clearer light all seem to be God’s reassurance we will get through this unusual time, and be stronger.
Chris, your thought is making me happy. All of it..It is sooo Golden.
Chris, thank you for looking up the definition of “watch”. I had meant to do that and then forgot, but I did notice the word and it is important. I think what Jesus is asking is for the disciples to “keep vigil” with him and pray. Don’t you? But “watch” also reminds me of those who stay with someone while they are suffering emotionally or sick or dying – to keep them company, to attend their needs. And in a way Jesus was asking this as well. I reminds me of “sitting shiva” with people – identify with them and mourning with them in silence. Do we “watch” with people? Do we “watch” with Jesus?
3. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three disciples and why?
He asks them to sit while He prayed. He tells them He is in distress, sorrowful; even to death. He asks them to help “keep watch.”
4. Read Mark 14:37-38
A. How did the disciples fail Him?
They fell asleep!
B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon.
He says to watch and pray not to enter the temptation. He says the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. He wants them to be strong.
Monday: The Spirit is Willing
3. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three disciples and why? – Jesus asked his disciples to sit there while he prayed. He then took Peter, James and John with him and he became deeply distressed and troubled and his soul was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. He asked them to keep watch. I think he was asking them to keep watch so no one would come and bother him as he prepared for his death while he prayed. The time had still not come yet, so others had to be held back.
4. Read Mark 14:37-38
A. How did the disciples fail Him? – When Jesus returned, he found Simon-Peter sleeping, he couldn’t even stay awake for one hour to pray as Jesus asked him to.
B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon. – He told him to watch, pray and not fall in to temptation.
C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for:
A warning for their own good – Jesus is telling them watch and pray so they do not fall in to temptation
A praise concerning their spirits – He tells them that their spirits are willing
Understanding concerning their flesh – Though Jesus commends them for their spirits that are willing, he also reminds them that the body is weak.
Unconditional love – The unconditional love is shown in all of these warning and reminders. He could have just left it at the criticizing Simon Peter when he fell asleep but he went further to help them see what was needed for their own safety. He didn’t just think about his own worry that was going on, but he wanted to make sure that they had everything they needed once he was gone.
5. When you allow the Spirit to search your heart, what does He tell you concerning any “wicked way” in you, and also, how that affects His love for you? – I know he is directing me to rid my heart of all the unforgiveness, the mumbling and grumbling that is in there. That those things are not helping me in any way to live the life that he has planned for me. But I know that though these actions sadden Him, he still loves me unconditionally. Knowing this, helps me to try every day to search my heart and soul so nothing stops me from pleasing him. Not in a way that is a give or take, but I just don’t want to sadden him, I want to live so he is proud of choosing me for his own. Not sure if this makes sense or not.
C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for:
A warning for their own good: don’t give in to temptation
A praise concerning their spirits: the spirit is willing
Understanding concerning their flesh: the body is weak
Unconditional love: (?) understanding these things about the disciples (man) and still encouraging them to press on and they will be blessed
This may be a duplicate…
Julie Pedroza
May 11, 2020
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Monday: The Spirit is Willing3. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three disciples and why? – Jesus asked his disciples to sit there while he prayed. He then took Peter, James and John with him and he became deeply distressed and troubled and his soul was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. He asked them to keep watch. I think he was asking them to keep watch so no one would come and bother him as he prepared for his death while he prayed. The time had still not come yet, so others had to be held back. 4. Read Mark 14:37-38 A. How did the disciples fail Him? – When Jesus returned, he found Simon-Peter sleeping, he couldn’t even stay awake for one hour to pray as Jesus asked him to. B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon. – He told him to watch, pray and not fall in to temptation. C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for: A warning for their own good – Jesus is telling them watch and pray so they do not fall in to temptation A praise concerning their spirits – He tells them that their spirits are willing
Understanding concerning their flesh – Though Jesus commends them for their spirits that are willing, he also reminds them that the body is weak. Unconditional love – The unconditional love is shown in all of these warning and reminders. He could have just left it at the criticizing Simon Peter when he fell asleep but he went further to help them see what was needed for their own safety. He didn’t just think about his own worry that was going on, but he wanted to make sure that they had everything they needed once he was gone.
5. When you allow the Spirit to search your heart, what does He tell you concerning any “wicked way” in you, and also, how that affects His love for you? – I know he is directing me to rid my heart of all the unforgiveness, the mumbling and grumbling that is in there. That those things are not helping me in any way to live the life that he has planned for me. But I know that though these actions sadden Him, he still loves me unconditionally. Knowing this, helps me to try every day to search my heart and soul so nothing stops me from pleasing him. Not in a way that is a give or take, but I just don’t want to sadden him, I want to live so he is proud of choosing me for his own. Not sure if this makes sense or not.
Sunday:
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Freedom. That is what I gleaned from the above. “Jesus has exhausted the wrath of God. The cup is empty. Not 99% empty but 100% empty. He drank it all for me. I no longer have to work for His unconditional love.
The picture of the 2 little birds under the mother bird’s wings. How secure and comfortable they look like!
In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
Yes. His Word has been a comfort to me particularly the Psalms. I read 5 chapters a day of the book of psalms last month. God drew me to Himself each day. I have felt His loving presence and comfort.
Great idea to go through the psalms during this time.
1. What stands out for me? Yes, I feel undeserving, for I do what I don’t want to do. But “He longs for us to rest in what He did for us.” I am so thankful.
1. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three disciples and why?
Sit and pray. Because his soul was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.
4. Read Mark 14:37-38
A. How did the disciples fail Him?
The disciples went to sleep.
B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon.
Couldn’t you keep watch for an hour?
Watch and pray so you will fall into temptation
The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.
C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for:
o A warning for their own good watch and pray
o A praise concerning their spirits they are willing
o Understanding concerning their flesh the flesh is weak
o Unconditional love No condemnation in Jesus’ voice but a statement of the natural condition of man
2. When you allow the Spirit to search your heart, what does He tell you concerning any “wicked way” in you, and also, how that affects His love for you?
It is so comforting that God loves me unconditionally and understands the weakness of my flesh. I am really beginning to just bask in His love instead of listening to the voice of the enemy.
Love this…”I am really beginning to just bask in His love instead of listening to the voice of the enemy.”
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
This statement…“He wants her to come to Him only because she wants to be with Him.” I thought of how it hurts when there are times I want my grandson to come to me and talk but comes reluctantly and wants to just get it over with. But on the flip side of that, it thrills my heart when he runs into my arms and doesn’t stop talking. May it be my desire to spend time with the Lord because I want to, not because I have to.
2. In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
Oh yes! I am so thankful that I serve the true and living God, because without Him I would be fearful and afraid but I know He is in control and He holds the future.
Great analogy with grandson.
5. When you allow the Spirit to search your heart, what does He tell you concerning any “wicked way” in you, and also, how that affects His love for you?
I do have wickedness inside of me that I, at times, can’t shake. I think bad thoughts, or say something that is not kind. I believe He still loves me, although I believe He would want me to try harder to be more of a listener than a talker at times. Just as we (my husband and I) love our own children, they don’t always act in ways we think are best for their happiness. We might guide them to a different way, but they may not accept it. We still love them, we just don’t agree that they are doing the right thing for their lives. I think this his how God views me. He loves me but would like me to make better choices when it comes to using my words or thinking negative thoughts.
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means “overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so?
I have heard Keller on this a number of times. That God the Father was giving Jesus a taste of what he was to endure while no one was around, an opportunity to refuse to endure it.It is something to ponder. I am not sure that we can know/understand all of this but I am grateful…so grateful, he didn’t refuse.
B. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask?Jesus calls God Abba, daddy, poppa, he asks that he not have to drink ‘the cup’
C. Challenge question: How do you see a typical lament in this prayer?
The rhythm of lament, bringing the anguish to God but ending in trust, that I know don’t see everything and trust that God does.
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment.
That Jesus was in anguish, so much so that he sweat blood, and that an angel came and strengthened him.
It is hard to think about, Jesus in anguish for my sin, the Father pouring out his wrath. Jesus taking the blow that I could never have withstood. I will be chewing on this today.
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means “overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so?
I haven’t thought of this before but it makes sense because Jesus is all-knowing-He is God. I also think it is a comfort from God.
B. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask?
Abba Father, who can do anything. Jesus asks God if He would take this cup but may God’s will be done, not Jesus’.
C. Challenge question: How do you see a typical lament in this prayer?
He is crying out to God on his face-abandoning Himself-telling God of His distress, yet at the same time knowing God can do anything and trusting God is good so if He doesn’t take it away-that is what is best.
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment.
An angel comforted Him! So like God to comfort us in our distress. Jesus distress was so deep that he sweat blood.
I have a question about the disciples and Jesus telling them to “keep watch.” What were they “keeping watch and praying for?” Was it just that no one would disturb them at that moments? Or was it something more significant?
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means “overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so?
Another question….how could a Jesus not have already known what would happen to Him? Why would He need to have a premonition? He is God so He would know, right?
B. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask?
He literally begs, “ABBA, Father, please take this away.“
I’d love to have people respond to Laura. I will too.
I am wondering if they were to keep watch for the one who would betray Jesus. I would think if they were praying it would show trust, in God’s plan, yet they fell asleep at his time of distress and loneliness.
I wonder if they knew what He meant to “keep watch?” I guess at this time they would have known there was to be a betrayer (they had had the last supper where Jesus told them), but it seems like over and over again the disciples are unaware (kind of slow to “get it” – kind of like me! Hahaha). It does make sense though; knowing the time line.
my thought is that because Jesus told them to keep watch so that they wouldn’t enter into temptation was that He was aware that Satan would do anything to stop the plan — that he was on the prowl — and they didn’t to pray for strength, truth, and protection
Monday
3. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three disciples and why?
To stay and keep watch with Him.
He’d become deeply troubled and distressed. (“He plunged into a sinkhole of dreadful agony.” The Message) His soul was crushed with grief to the point of death.
4. Read Mark 14:37-38
A. How did the disciples fail Him?
They fell asleep
B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon.
1. Keep watch and pray
2. So you won’t give in to temptation
3. The spirit is willing but the body is weak
C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for:
A warning for their own good: Pray and watch, so you don’t become tempted
A praise concerning their spirits: The spirit wants to do this, it’s willing.
Understanding concerning their flesh: The flesh is weak (“it’s as lazy as an old dog sleeping by the fire.” The Message)
Unconditional love: Jesus isn’t mad at at him but understands his humanness. He knows what it’s like to be tempted and tired and He loves him enough to give him a warning and explain why. I find it interesting that Jesus calls him by his “old” name, Simon, rather than Peter!
5. When you allow the Spirit to search your heart, what does He tell you concerning any “wicked way” in you, and also, how that affects His love for you?
He tells me to turn away from my wicked ways. To have a repentant heart. He knows me better than I know myself and He loves me enough to discipline me and gives me strength to overcome.
I see the answer to Laura’s question in your answer, Sharon.
3. Mark 14:32-34 Jesus asked the disciples to sit here while I pray.
4. Mark 14:37-38 However they all slept.
B. Three things Jesus said to Peter: Simon, are you asleep, Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation.
C. Meditate on verse 38: a warning- the flesh is weak
a praise-the promise of prayer to keep from temptation
understanding- knowing the Spirit is willing
unconditional love- that Jesus loves and gives us the way to be free from sin
5. Allow the spirit to search your heart, and what does he tell you concerning any wicked way in you and his unconditional love?
He assures me that yes, the wicked way is my self-centeredness, but as I come to him he is faithful to forgive me and to cleanse me, I John 1:9
He gives me desire to follow him and to lean on him. He renews my strength when I feel weak.
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means “overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so?
The ESV translation used the words “greatly distressed and troubled.” We also are told that his distress caused his sweat to become like great drops of blood” (Luke 22:45) showing his emotional and physical trauma was intense. It was like no other suffering because he was taking on everyone’s sin since the beginning to time until the end of time. I cannot even picture that. Even if I pause to consider the intensity of the sin in our world for one day, I am overwhelmed – murders, hatred, cruelty, dishonesty, and so on.
B. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask?
“Abba, Father” Abba is the Aramaic word for Father. It is what a child would use. In Jewish tradition of that time, naming God as Father would be seen as too familiar, not respectful enough of the holy God. Jesus had an intimate relationship with God and he desires us to have one as well.
C. Challenge question: How do you see a typical lament in this prayer?
Jesus’ prayer is feeling the pain of suffering and begging that it be removed. That is typical of lament prayers in the Psalms. Yet, further, he consciously is submitting to God’s will, knowing that often we must suffer in order that God’s will is done. Most of the Psalms of Lament end on a note of recognition of God’s sovereignty.
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment.
Judas arrives with a crowd from the Jewish leaders having swords and clubs to have Jesus arrested. He furthermore misuses a kiss, a usual sign of respect and friendship, to declare that Jesus is the man to arrest.
8. Read the opening of Chapter 15 in Keller’s book up to “The Wrath of Love” and share your notes and comments.
What Jesus is facing as he faces the cross is the first time he will be separated from God, who is love, light, life and coherence. It is the presence of God that makes life make sense. Jesus will lose the presence of God. He will be separated from God. That is the horror that Jesus is facing that Keller thinks is causing the horror for Jesus in the Garden.
I now notice that I got #7 wrong. I looked at Mark 14:43, 44 instead of Luke 22:43,44. That is why the question didn’t exactly make sense. Sorry to confuse anyone.
Tuesday
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means “overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so? (Not quite sure what the question is)
I think it goes beyond the physical horror or the horror of death but rather the horror of being made sin. Knowing that He would have to experience a time of being separated from God because He could not look upon sin. That is suffering no one had faced before! To be honest, it’s really hard to wrap my mind around this.
B. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask?
He addresses Him as Abba Father.
He asks Him to please take this cup of suffering away.
C. Challenge question: How do you see a typical lament in this prayer?
Asking if at all possible that this awful hour would pass, take away the suffering but also wanting God’s will, not His.
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment.
Jesus was strengthened by an angel from heaven.
Prayed more fervently
In such agony of spirit, sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood.
Tuesday: Overcome with Horror
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means “overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so? – Jesus fell to the ground and prayed, but it makes me feel that he pleaded with the Father to take the cup from him. He knew from the start why he was born, so that was not a surprise to him but if he did have a premonition, he saw a terrible death he was about to face. That had to be very overwhelming.
B. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask? – Abba, Father, everything is possible for you, take this cup from me. Yet not my will but yours be done.
C. Challenge question: How do you see a typical lament in this prayer? – I see Jesus crying out to his Father, telling him I don’t want to do this. Take this from me. Let me have a pass on this death I’m about to face.
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment. – Luke adds that an angel from heaven appeared and gave Jesus strength. And there is a more descriptive line that says that his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground because he prayed so earnestly and was in anguish.
8. Read the opening of Chapter 15 in Keller’s book up to “The Wrath of Love” and share your notes and comments. – Jesus sensing or seeing what was about to happen to him. It was beyond physical torment even beyond physical death. I’m a bit confused here, so for that time he was alive on the cross he was separated from the Father, but his last breath brought him to the Father’s side? And for those who die because of their faith in Jesus, they die in a more calming way, is it because it is not lasting or because they don’t have any idea what’s to come? I think if you are being burned at the stake you would have some sense of fear that being set on fire is going to hurt. Are they thinking beyond the pain and know that for a little pain in the here and now, they will be pain free the instant they take their last breath?
6. Read Mark 14:32-36
A. Keller says the Greek word for “troubled” in verse 33 means “overcome with horror.” Keller believes He had a premonition of the suffering ahead, which would be like no suffering anyone had ever faced. Why, do you think this was so?
Because He will be taking full blast the wrath of God? Since God cannot look at sin, God the Father has to turn away from Jesus and there will be a separation from the Father that He has never experienced before?
A. How does Jesus address God, and what does He ask?
Abba, Father. That the cup be taken away according to God the Father’s will.
B. Challenge question: How do you see a typical lament in this prayer?
I had to look at the phases of lament: Invocation, Complaint, Petition/request, Expression of Trust/confidence, vow of praise.
Invocation: Abba, Father
Complaint: my soul is overwhelmed to the point of death
Petition: Take this cup
Trust: Not my will but yours be done
Praise: Everything is possible for you.
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment.
An angel appeared and strengthened Him. God, the Father must have felt the agony of His Son. Could this be a promise to us that God will do the same when we are in the anguish of the soul or experiencing dark nights of the soul? Could it be that this very moment Jesus is already sin for us that the Father Himself cannot visit Jesus and sent an angel instead?
8. Read the opening of Chapter 15 in Keller’s book up to “The Wrath of Love” and share your notes and comments.
Jesus is not only feeling or knowing the physical suffering He will experience on the cross but having a foretaste of it. In the Garden, all Jesus could see is the ever-widening chasm between Him and the Father which would culminate in complete abandonment as God couldn’t look at His Son when He was sin personified in place of man on the cross.
Bing has some interesting questions on 7 I’d love to see people address!
I see what you are saying, but God doesn’t just come to earth, does He? I guess He did in the burning bush, but He normally sent angels, right (to Mary, Joseph, etc,)?
The angel of the LORD was Jesus — at least according to Spurgeon and a preacher from Redeemer — so He did come with Abraham, Moses, others
Bing, I have pondered your questions…good ones. I think of another time when Jesus was ministered to and it was angels, not just one and that was after the temptation in the wilderness. It’s interesting to me that in both cases of being ministered to by angel/angels, it centers around temptation. What it shows me is the human part of Jesus as it says in Hebrew 2:7a, “You have made Him a little lower than the angels…” Then in Hebrews 2;18 it says, “For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted,” is a promise that He will be there for us.
I also thought that an angel was sent to minister to Him because all the disciples had gone to sleep and weren’t there for Him. That comforts me to know, that when I’m going through temptation or anguish in my soul, that even though friends may not be there, He always is.
Thank you, all. This just reminded me that Jesus is always there for us. Jesus was willing to be abandoned by the Father so we would never have to be abandoned and left alone.
Tuesday
8. Read the opening of Chapter 15 in Keller’s book up to “The Wrath of Love” and share your notes and comments.
It is interesting but makes perfect sense why it seems that followers of Jesus died “better” than He did. In the garden of Gethsemane, “Jesus turns to the Father and all He can see before Him is wrath, the abyss, the chasm, the nothingness of the cup.” In the garden was where Jesus began to experience a foretaste of what would happen on the cross…separation from His Father!
7. What other details does Luke add in Luke 22:43-44? Comment.
An angel appeared to Him and strengthened Him. Also, He was so determined that His Sweat was blood!
8. Read the opening of Chapter 15 in Keller’s book up to “The Wrath of Love” and share your notes and comments.
I don’t understand why Jesus tells them to wait and watch? Watch for what?
I still don’t understand why He didn’t know what was to happen at the end. Is it because He has never been without God (the light?)?
Also, why did the martyrs seem to take it better than He? Is that because they had hope for the light?
So I see part of my questions answered in Sharon’s post above (His soul is crushed).
But, not what they are watching for? Is this in case the devil shows up to tempt them?
Laura, my thoughts on why he tells them to watch (be alert and on guard) are twofold, Jesus in his humanity was going through a horrific ordeal, he wanted companionship & compassion from his friends, the way we would if we were going through a terrible trial, someone to be concerned and ‘with’ us. Also, I imagine that Jesus wanted them to be as connected as they possibly could be to the Father through prayer, for the protection of their own souls before they walked through the horror of the crucifixion.
My thoughts on Jesus knowing what was going to happen, he clearly knew that the plan was for him to die, but the actual weight of what it would be like to bear the weight of the sins of humanity, to be cut off from the experience of God the Father being present with him in unity and perfect love, he perhaps hadn’t realized just how horrendous that tribulation would actually be. The martyrs had never had the perfect unity with God the Father that Jesus knew, the sense of the love of God that they did possess was not removed from them as they died, the loss of that connection was, according to Keller, the thing that crushed Jesus the most. “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”
I hope that helps a little maybe? 🙂
Yes, Christina, exactly. Thank you for answering Laura’s questions so well. Your answers are helpful to me as well.
Wednesday: The Wrath of Love
9. Read this section in Chapter 15 and share your notes and comments. – What a great explanation of the wrath of God. I never really knew what to say to people when they say “how could your God hurt people” but this section really helped bring it to light. A great example to use when this question comes up. He is justifiable to his wrath because he loves us so much. I loved the C.S. Lewis conversation where he explains to his friend that an electrical wire may shock you but you can’t compare Jesus to that because Jesus can forgive, but the electrical wire can’t.
10. How would you answer someone who said, “I cannot deal with the idea of a God of wrath?” – I would say back to them, that I would rather have a God that holds me accountable to be the best person I can be, then to just live a life of recklessness. His wrath is justice being shown to those that do wrong or to situations that hurt those he loves. He is using his wrath to correct us, to discipline us so we learn that there are consequences to our actions.
6. Mark 14:32-36 The Greek word for troubled, “overcome with horror” Jesus had a foreknowledge that he would be abandoned by his Father, it seems to me. I always felt so sad at his words, Why have you forsaken me? when he was on the cross.
B. How does Jesus address God? Abba Father, a term of endearment, like Daddy. He was coming to plead with him, yet willing to do his will.
C. I see this as a lament, because he expresses, if this cup could be taken from me. He is expecting the suffering and torture that lies ahead, desiring if this be possible and knowing that with God all things are possible, yet still he is willing to do his Father’s will.
7. Luke 22: 43-44 Other details in this version: an angel appeared to him from heaven, and he prayed earnestly, sweating like great drops of blood.
8. Chapter 15: The Cup, Keller says that up to this point Jesus had been completely in control. There were no surprises…but suddenly something he experiences fills him with horror. He says now he seems to “taste this horror”. It is more than the physical pain. He has always been flooded with God’s love, and the dance with the Spirit floods him with love. He senses the separation that will come to him through this cup of God’s wrath. In Ezekiel and Isaiah, the cup of God’s wrath was a symbol of divine justice being poured out on injustice.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I have struggled with the same thoughts and feelings of, “I deserve this sorrow (or to be punished, to have something bad happen) – I fail the Lord so much.” And I struggle with self-forgiveness, feelings of self-reproach, feelings that I am a terrible person. I live with the regrets of things I should have done but failed to do.
“His steadfast love never wavers, it is not based on our performance.” “He longs for us to rest in what He did for us.” I think I am harder on myself than maybe God is. Even today, I think of my dad who just passed away. I think of the times I could have spent time with him, but I thought I had too much to do and didn’t have time. We spent time together for his birthday, and another day going out to lunch together. Then I went to FL for a week with my daughter. When I came back, everything changed. The stay-at-home orders came, and I was not allowed to see him. It wasn’t until last week, when I think everyone realized the coronavirus wasn’t the main threat to him anymore, that my other sister and I were able to visit. My sister and her husband were planning to go to the beach in June, and I had volunteered to stay at their home with dad while they were gone, thinking I could have an entire week with him. But now, I am left thinking about all the missed opportunities I had to be with him. I have been studying Philippians, and journaling through it. The main message of Phil 3:1-11, to me, is the being right with God comes through relying on what Jesus has done and depends on faith. Verse 3, in my words, “I rely on what Jesus has done for me and put no confidence in my own effort.” When I am focused on my own behavior, whether I do okay or I fail, and then I feel such guilt and shame, it shows that I’m not relying on what Jesus has done for me. When I keep looking at myself to see how I stand with God, I am not depending on what Jesus has done. God didn’t set up salvation in a way that it’s my burden to bear and I must live in fear as to am I living up to His standards or not, because I can never live up to His standards.
2. In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
I am learning to dialogue with Him through the book of Philippians, going slowly, and journaling. (I did this through Chip Ingram’s ministry, Living on the Edge, online, as he got us started in how to study the book and had these online videos in which he was mentoring us, and then we finish the book on our own. It’s been really helpful). I have felt part of a little online community with Fr. James Martin on his daily FB Live faith sharing, as he reads through the daily gospel reading and then we talk about it. We can post comments and he tries to read many and answer questions. It meant a lot to me when last week, I commented, asking for prayer for my dad, and he saw it and read it and said yes, we will pray for your dad. God has given me peace in these difficult times.
I’m glad to see you here Susan, and to hear of God’s peace with you. I know your dad was so special and you miss him, and have concern over your son’s assignment!
Susan, I resonate so much with what you said here about your feelings after your Dad passed away. I am thankful for the ways my daughter and I were able to connect with my Mom before she passed away. Nevertheless, I also struggled with feelings of guilt and regret about times in the past that I thought could have been opportunities to love on her. I am learning to let go of these feelings and rely on the unconditional love of God.
Been thinking of you these days and thankful you are experiencing God’s peace.
10. How would you answer someone who said, “I cannot deal with the idea of a God of wrath?”
I thought about this and keep going back to this Miroslav Volf quote:
My thesis is that the practice of non-violence requires a belief in divine vengeance…My thesis will be unpopular with man in the West…But imagine speaking to people (as I have) whose cities and villages have been first plundered, then burned, and leveled to the ground, whose daughters and sisters have been raped, whose fathers and brothers have had their throats slit…Your point to them–we should not retaliate? Why not? I say–the only means of prohibiting violence by us is to insist that violence is only legitimate when it comes from God…Violence thrives today, secretly nourished by the belief that God refuses to take the sword…It takes the quiet of a suburb for the birth of the thesis that human nonviolence is a result of a God who refuses to judge. In a scorched land–soaked in the blood of the innocent, the idea will invariably die, like other pleasant captivities of the liberal mind…if God were NOT angry at injustice and deception and did NOT make a final end of violence, that God would not be worthy of our worship.
Another thing that has been helpful to me in this is David Powlison’s book Good & Angry. Seeing that there are things that are proper to be angry about, the things that anger God, and has been helpful in evaluating what is motivating my emotions, selfishness, or being created in God’s image and caring about what he cares for.
The truth that all sin is against God before it is against any of us. That all of us are in a state of rebellion, doing damage to each other and the world and that makes God angry. That has been helpful, he is angry because he cares. Our rebellion and His judgment isn’t about his ego, it is about what is right and true and what would be best for everyone.
I love the Miroslav Golf quote. Something you must resonate with.
Yes, thank you, Dee, it has helped me tremendously.
Christina, thanks for the Miroslav Volf quote. It is helping me process the violence of the mass shooting in Nova Scotia. We can only believe in non-violence if we truly believe in a God who will give us justice in the end.
9. Read this section in Chapter 15 and share your notes and comments.
I know the anger (wrath) felt when your “creation” is harming themselves or someone else is harming them. I live this idea day to day as my daughter lives with a man who has destroyed her life (my opinion of course). Think of it; God set up something so amazing and then we don’t value it. He is angry about that. He is also loving and forgiving because He knows we can’t help it.
God has so much invested in us, His creation, that it pains Him to watch us destroy ourselves and others.
My mom would have said (to answer your question), that “to know good you must know evil.” I think this is the gist of what Keller is saying here.
I had a hard time understanding the analogy of the electrical wire in the part about Lewis and then”Letters to Malcolm.” Anyone want to explain it to me?
10. How would you answer someone who said, “I cannot deal with the idea of a God of wrath?”
I would tell them what I (my mom) said first. Then I would ask them if they had children. If they did then I would ask if their kids always did what they felt was good for their lives. Most likely they would say no. I would then ask them how it made them feel when they knew the daughter or son was making a bad choice for their lives. They would maybe say “sad” or “angry.” I would relate that feeling back to God.
If they don’t have children, then I could relate it to a family member or a good friend, or even a “creation” they are responsible for in their work that is critiqued or not valued somehow.
Laura, I think Julie explains it above. See her post from Wednesday #9. Hope it helps.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The Father loves me as He loves Jesus. I had a very hard weekend and knowing the truth of God’s love for me is a great comfort.
2. In this time of quarantine, have you sensed the presence of the Lord bringing you under His wings? If so, how?
I have had peace throughout this time—a real sense of His Sovereignty and His goodness. I have always loved the attribute of God that is all-powerful—I know no virus is more powerful than Him, nothing is out of His power to use for His purpose and glory.
He has also given me good time with my husband and kids and made provisions for us that are reminders of His hand, His protection.
3. Read Mark 14:32-34 and answer: What did Jesus ask of these three disciples and why?
He asked them to stay with Him and keep watch. His soul was deeply sorrowful, to the point of death.
4. Read Mark 14:37-38 A. How did the disciples fail Him?
They fell asleep instead of keeping watch and praying.
B. In verse 38, find the three things Jesus says to Simon.
Watch and pray in order to not fall into temptation (and fall asleep again).
C. Meditate on verse 38 and see if you can find evidence for:
A warning for their own good: Stay awake and pray to avoid temptation
A praise concerning their spirits : The spirit indeed is willing
Understanding concerning their flesh: the flesh is weak
Unconditional love: He gave them another chance to try again
So good to hear of your peace in this time, Lizzy.
Thursday-Friday: The Obedience of Love
11. Read Mark 14:41-42. How does Jesus now face the horror? – It seems like he has gotten to the point that he is accepting that the Father cannot remove this cup from him. He is still upset with the disciples that they fall asleep again, but tells them to RISE and go with him to meet the betrayer. This makes me sad, to think that he is giving himself up for me and the disciples had no clue just what was going to happening to the point where they were able to sleep. If they knew just what was going to happen next, I would think they would have been up with worry and unable to fall asleep.
11. Read Mark 14:41-42. How does Jesus now face the horror?
Jesus has resigned Himself to what will be at this point. He has faced the horror head on.
10. How would you answer someone who said, “I cannot deal with the idea of a God of wrath?”
Keller says, if God truly loves us, he must be angry at the evil in the world. He was angry enough to do something about it, he sent his Son to pay the penalty for sin. This makes sense. If we only think of God as being angry at us, then we are missing the big picture that God’s love and justice must go together. He must be angry at the evil in the world, at the harm being done to people and to creation.
Yet, right now sometimes all we see is the evil in the world. It seems out of control. We feel helpless to do anything about it. It is easy to give up; to think that there must not really be a God or he would fix the problem. Our sense of justice is outraged and we blame God or decide he does not exist.
It is hard to live in the in-between, to remember that Jesus paid the price for the evil in the world, yet all is not made right. My sense of justice cries out for God to make things right.
Yet, God enabled us to work against evil. That is part of our purpose here – to do what we can to right the wrongs in the world. Our little part is an important part. We are being like God when we work for justice.
Thursday-Friday: The Obedience of Love
11. Read Mark 14:41-42. How does Jesus now face the horror?
After spending time in agony in prayer with his Father, abandoned by his friends, he faces the coming of his betrayer resolutely.
12. Read to the end of the chapter and share your notes and comments.
When we suffer, there are three main ways we react: we flee our circumstances (avoid); we detach (Stoicism); or we submit our circumstances to God and trust him (obey). Fleeing is the correct response in some situations. Detaching is sometimes the right response. Trusting God in our circumstances is always the correct response. In our culture, we mostly avoid or flee. We think suffering is always wrong and must be changed as soon as possible.
I have been thinking about the shooting rampage that took place in Nova Scotia a few weeks ago. What would possess a man to shoot so many people over several hours? That is an extreme example of suffering turning to fleeing, I think. His way to deal with suffering circumstances that he did not like turned to anger, then to unchecked violence. No doubt there were mental issues involved, but anger unleashed is a very dangerous thing.
It is frightening how much evil can be unleashed — you wonder if Satan is involved as well — frightening how dark one can become.
Thursday – Friday
11. Read Mark 14:41-42. How does Jesus now face the horror?
He faces it head on.
When He goes to His disciples the third time, He tells them to go ahead and sleep, get some rest. But then says no, the time has come for the Son of Man to be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up and let’s go…look my betrayer is here.
12. Read to the end of the chapter and share your notes and comments.
Jesus was betrayed by Judas with a kiss.
One of the men with Jesus cut the ear off of the soldier trying to arrest Jesus.
Jesus told them that these things were happening in this manner to fulfill what the Scriptures said about Him.
All the disciples deserted Him.
One young man following behind was only wearing a long linen shirt. When the mob grabbed him they pulled the shirt off and he ran away naked. (I don’t ever remember seeing this account before! Mark is the only one who mentions this. Who was he or does is matter?)
Jesus was taken before the council and falsely accused and asked if He is the Messiah and Jesus says, “I Am. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.”
Accusing Him of blasphemy the High Priest tore His clothing to show his horror and gave the verdict of guilty.
They began to spit on Him, blindfolded Him and beat Him with their fists while jeering at Him to prophesy. The guards slapped Him has they took Him away.
Peter realizes that he denied Christ just as He said he would, broke down and wept.
13. How might you turn what you’ve learned into prayer?
I thank You Jesus for loving me so much that You were willing to be betrayed, ridiculed, spit upon and beaten. Please give me strength day by day to persevere in my walk with You…You are the great I Am and what a blessed hope to one day see You coming on the clouds.
I guess I misunderstood question 12…thought you meant to the end of Chapter 14 in Mark. 🤦🏻♀️ I was wondering how everyone was coming up with such elaborate answers to that question!!!
I’m not always as clear as I should be!
Wednesday: The Wrath of Love
9. Read this section in Chapter 15 and share your notes and comments.
“Your conception of God’s love and of your value in His sight will only be as big as your understanding of His wrath.” I often do not have a proper concept of the magnitude of God’s wrath over sin. Knowing this and reminding myself of this frequently should lead me to live a praise-full life regardless of my circumstances.
10. How would you answer someone who said, “I cannot deal with the idea of a God of wrath?”
God loves His creation and creatures and when the enemy messes with those He loves, God is angry. He values us all that He will do anything to take us out of the enemy’s clutches. He is also holy and just. He gave us the ultimate gift of His Son, so we no longer have to be the object of His righteous wrath because Jesus took that cup of wrath for us.
Thursday-Friday: The Obedience of Love
11. Read Mark 14:41-42. How does Jesus now face the horror?
“Rise, and let us go.” He was resolute and ready for His betrayer. There is no turning back. For some reason, I just thought of the men who were with Todd Beamer on that United Airlines flight on 9-11 who tried to regain control of the aircraft. I believe they knew they were going to die but they did try anyway. And although many others died with them, there would have been more if they did not try. They gave up their lives. And here is Jesus ready to die for all mankind. Sorry for the rabbit trail.
12. Read to the end of the chapter and share your notes and comments.
Jesus was wrestling in the Garden of Gethsemane but obeying in love.
Jesus immediate desire to be spared has to bow down before his ultimate one, that is, to spare us.
Often what seems to be our deepest desires are really just our loudest desires.
I trust you no matter what I am feeling right now.
Jesus did not deny his emotions; He doesn’t avoid suffering; He loves into suffering.
I will be able to trust the Father in my suffering because Jesus took the cup.
Your deepest desire and your actual circumstances are going to keep converging until they unite forever on the day of the eternal feast.
Christ was willing to endure great suffering to make atonement for wickedness that is so great.
Christ love is different-it will never let me down.
13. How might you turn what you’ve learned into prayer?
Jesus, thank you for your obedience to the Father’s will. You love Him and you also love me. May it be my motivation during times of suffering and may I always look to you and no one else. My sin is so great but your love is greater still. You will never let me down. Help me trust you when my emotions would like to silence your truth. Help me speak truth to my soul and not to listen to its lies and deception from the enemy. Thank you, Lord, for choosing me.
Thursday-Friday: The Obedience of Love
12. Read to the end of the chapter and share your notes and comments.– What a great reminder that our desires can be so destructive to not just ourselves but to others that may be around us that we need to learn how to suppress them but not eliminate them. By eliminating them will also eliminate the ability to love like God made us to love. Jesus was able to do this. He was in distress and begging God to pass the cup from him, but he didn’t want us to suffer so he accepted the cup he was given. It was not something he could eliminate because he loves us so much that it had to be done this way. “That his immediate desire (to be spared) must bow before his ultimate one (to spare us).” We need to make this a habit of not trying to get out of something God has put before us, but to suppress it so we can reach the blessing of the cup we are handed.
13. How might you turn what you’ve learned into prayer? – Lord, I know there will be times where I beg to get out of a situation because it seems to hard. Help me Lord to suppress my desires if I’m to learn something through them. I want the ability to love like you have created me to love. Help me to always seek you for guidance and help and help me avoid the desires that will ruin me. I want to always be in your will. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
12. Read to the end of the chapter and share your notes and comments.
We do not want to suffer. If we don’t like our circumstances then we try to change them instead of suffering through them to the other side. New circumstances occur and then we decide we don’t like those either.
Jesus models what we should do…we may not like our situation, but we should concede to God in the end. Of course I would not say that is true if someone is being abused however.
“Our deepest desires are really just our loudest desires.” We can tend to behave badly when we aren’t getting our way. Jesus doesn’t do that. He obeys in love.
Jesus doesn’t deny his emotions or avoid his suffering. He leans into the suffering for us.
9. The Wrath of Love: Keller says, If you want a loving God, you have to have an angry God. For the more you love people in your life, the angrier you can get, because of the sense of justice when a wrong is committed. For you do not tolerate seeing your beloved abused!
God loves his creation and cannot tolerate the evil that is destroying his people and the world he loves. In fact he loved the world so much that he had to go to the cross, pay the ransom and suffer torment. We must realize the value we have to God. The analogy that CS Lewis writes to Malcolm who does not want to accept an angry God, but likens God’s anger to a live wire that shocks us is that a live wire(electricity) cannot forgive, yet an angry God does forgive.
10. How would I answer someone who says, “I cannot deal with the idea of a God of wrath”?
God does love so deeply that he cannot tolerate the evil done to us or to his creation. In fact if he was not a God of wrath, it would only indicate that he is not a God who loves us so much that he would send Jesus to pay the price for our sins. To tolerate evil would indicate only a god who does not stand for justice.
Good to see the God of justice!
11. Mark 14:41-42 How does Jesus now face the horror?Jesus returns to the disciples and asks, are you still sleeping? He tells them that the hour has now come for the betrayer is at hand. “Rise, let us be going.” He is prepared to obey.
13. How might you turn what you’ve learned into prayer?
I thank You Lord for going the distance for us. Thank You for making the decision to go through the whole ordeal and not give in to weakness. I am grateful that You loved us so much to make the sacrifice. Help me remember to love others well, and to sacrifice myself for them so they, will too, know true love that is giving to them, not taking from them. Amen.
12. the Obedience of Love: Suffering happens when there is a gap between the desires of your heart and the circumstances of your life. then comes the decision of what to do. Sometimes it is necessary to change the circumstances if they are unhealthy. However, if not, then perhaps one needs to suppress ones’ desires and become detached. If our desires are destructive, we need to suppress them, but to eliminate all desire is to eliminate our ability to love.
In the Garden of Gethsemane Jesus is pouring his heart out to His Father. He is asking God to change the circumstances, that if possible the hour might pass. Keller says he is contending with the Father, asking him for a way out, for another way to rescue us without going under the sword. But he’s mot taking things into his own hands. In the end he’s obeying, submitting to the will of the Father. Though he is wrestling he is obeying in love.
When we are in intense pain we can’t think straight and we turn on the people who love us. but Jesus doesn’t do this. He says “not what I will, but what you will.” He is putting trust in the Father’s hand by surrendering to his will. He doesn’t deny his emotions or avoid the suffering. He obeys out of love- for the Father and for us.
That is the lesson for me- not to deny my desire or change my circumstance, but to trust that God will work it out for his glory. And in closing I am reminded of the height the depth, the width of God’s love. No other love could possibly satisfy for all other kinds of love will let me down.
13. How might I turn what I have learned into prayer? Heavenly Father, this lesson on obedience is what I need. Help me through the challenge I face in my own circumstances. Forgive what is unhealthy in my desire- seeking approval. Help me to trust you completely. My suffering is not a physical one as Jesus had to endure for a time. Yet I know that by obeying you completely, I may bring glory through obedience. Thank you, Father, for this lesson.
Saturday:
14. What is your take-a-way and why?
Romans 8:32 came to mind as I did this study this week. “He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”
God loves us so much that He gave us His Son. Jesus loved us so much that He willingly drank the cup in our place. He drank it all. No more sacrifice on my part to seek God’s favor. He loves me just as I am and I can live freely, gratefully, and in the power of the Holy Spirit.