JESUS PRAYS IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE

Matthew 26:36-75
Key Verse: 26:39b

    "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me.
     Yet not as I will, but as you will."


1.  Read verses 36-38. How and why did Jesus share his sorrowful and
   troubled heart with his disciples? Read verses 39-46. How did Jesus
   encourage his disciples? (41,42,45) What did they do? Why?

2.  What was Jesus' prayer request? What was "the cup"? Why was he
   "overwhelmed with sorrow"? (cf. Jn 1:29; 2Co 5:21; Gal 3:13) What
   was his struggle? How did prayer change things for Jesus?

3.  Read verses 47-51. Who sent the large crowd armed with swords and
   clubs? Who led them? What was his signal? How did Jesus respond?
   What does this reveal about him? How did his disciples respond?
   Why?

4.  Read verses 52-56. What did Jesus teach his disciples? What did he
   teach the crowd? Why did he not save himself? Why was it important
   that scriptures be fulfilled?

5.  Read verses 57-67. Who tried him? What was the purpose of this
   trial?  (59) What were the charges they brought against him? How did
   Jesus respond to the false charges? What was Jesus' faith and
   glorious hope? What was their decision?

6.  Read verses 33-35,40,41,58,69-75. Why did Peter disown Jesus?
   Contrast Jesus with Peter. What does this event show about the
   efficacy of prayer?