Jesus’ Fiercest Struggle At The End Of The Tunnel
GOOD FRIDAY WORSHIP SERVICE: MARCH 29, 2024
Rev. Brian Moon
INTRODUCTION
27 And there followed him a great multitude of the people and of women who were mourning and lamenting for him. 28 But turning to them Jesus said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. (Luke 23:27-28)
33 And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. 34 And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” 35 And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. (Mark 14:33-35)
44 And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (Luke 22:44)
1. Christ’s struggle is the fiercest at the end of the tunnel.
2. Christ’s fiercest struggle is his spiritual struggle.
12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12)
38 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mark 14:38)
36 And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” (Mark 14:36)
Christ’s fiercest struggle was not the physical pain of the cross; Christ’s real struggle was to fiercely submit himself to the will of God the Father.
3. Christ is fiercely patient toward his disciples even in the most intensified struggle.
37 And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? (Mark 14:37)
40 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. (Mark 14:40)
41 And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. (Mark 14:41)