Christ—Pivotal Events, 2of3

~ 3 Events in the Life of Christ Where He Fought Alone On Our Behalf: The Garden of Gethsemane ~

The Situations  ~  Jesus Christ stood alone against the power of darkness on three distinct occasions.  The first may be thought of as primarily physical, the second mental, and the third spiritual.  In each case it was a spiritual battle against the unseen forces of evil (Ephesians 6:11-13).  In each of these situations the “Light of the World” waged war on our behalf against the unseen forces of evil.  In conquering each situation He was tackling basic problems of fallen mankind on earth. 

The Result  ~  Jesus Christ provided, and provides, the solutions to the sin problems which we encounter today. “We do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.  Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16). 

The Second Event Was The Garden of Gethsemane (mental)  ~  “Coming out, Jesus went to the Mount of Olives, as He was accustomed, and His disciples also followed Him.  When He came to the place, He said to them, ‘Pray that you may not enter into temptation.’  And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, saying, ‘Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.’  Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.  And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly.  Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.  When He rose up from prayer, and had come to His disciples, He found them sleeping from sorrow.  Then He said to them, ‘Why do you sleep?  Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation’ (Luke 22:39-46). 

Comments  ~  (1) In the previous chapter Dr. Luke tells us that we should pray continually (Luke 21:36).  Besides the sweet communion we have with God when we have constant prayer we are told here that such prayer keeps us from falling for temptation (“Pray that you may not enter into temptation”).

(2) In His time of need Jesus Christ was strengthened by an angel.  How much more important for us to not try to go it alone!

Our Responsibility  ~  “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:11-13).

the key question:  “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15).  This is the most important question you will ever answer.  If you do not answer it, or answer it incorrectly, you have made the biggest mistake anyone can make!

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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