40: Although Jesus addresses Peter, the word ‘ye’ and the plural form of his commands shows that he was speaking to Peter, James, and John. It is implied that the others were asleep as well. Surely the disciples could stay awake for one hour more.
41: Jesus now adds to the request. He tells them to watch and pray, so that they will not begin to be tested and deny their Lord. Jesus knew exactly when his disciples would leave him. However, he always exhorted people to do the right things, even when he knew that they would not. He was instructing them as to how to continue with him through this ordeal, though he knew they would leave him soon.
He makes here an observation concerning the weakness of the flesh to encourage them to resist its tendency to drag them towards temptation. Although he was perfect, he was on this night beginning to feel those limitations because of the weight of sin.
Personal Journal Entry #12008
Prayer Journal Entry #12008
Daily Bible Reading: Genesis 23:1-24:67