November 30
November 30
GOD'S WORD: Matthew 26:38,39 "Then He said to them, "My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me." He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, "O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will."
SHEEP: Vs.38 a. True faith is manifested in obedience to God's will. The sufferings of Jesus particularly His death, were the Father's profoundest occasion to glorify Christ. It's the heart of the church's message. He was obedient (He loved us so much) that we would Have an abundant life in Him and for Him.
Vs. 39 If we take suffering correctly we learn:
- Obedience to the Father – Jesus Himself cried out (identified with our flesh)
- Flesh is crucified – pride dies, humble ourselves
- Become more like Christ – Jesus Himself cried out to the Father and developed a relationship, experiencing the wonder of a life that draws near to God. Hebrews 5:7-9
- Vs.39 c. Matthew 20:22 But Jesus answered and said, "You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?"They said to Him, "We are able."*ask – insistent asking without qualms, not commanding, inherent strength and action *able – have power, willingness *baptism – personal identification with Christ in death, burial and resurrection Vs. 39 d. We can do nothing without Him John 5:30,6:38