Verse 38
Jesus then addressed all three disciples. He commanded them to be watchful (Gr. gregoreite, cf. Mark 13:34-35; Mark 13:37) and to pray (Gr. proseuchesthe, the general word for prayer). These activities are necessary to overcome temptation. This use of "flesh" is probably literal (i.e., the body) rather than metaphorical (i.e., the sinful human nature) since it contrasts with the human spirit (i.e., man’s volitional powers; cf. Psalms 51:12).
Mark wrote that Peter was asleep three times (Mark 14:37; Mark 14:40-41), and later he wrote that Peter denied Jesus three times (Mark 14:68; Mark 14:70-71). The disciples should have been praying for themselves as well as for Jesus in view of what Jesus had told them was coming.
"In the passion account, the disciples are ironic figures: Because of their incomprehension, they badly misconstrue the true nature of things. Thinking themselves to be astute, courageous, and loyal, they are in reality imperceptive, cowardly, and faithless. Entering upon the passion, the disciples yet follow Jesus in commitment to him. As events unfold, however, they will renounce their commitment through word or deed and apostatize." [Note: Kingsbury, p. 111.]
"Spiritual wakefulness and prayer in full dependence upon divine help provide the only adequate preparation for crisis (cf. Ch. Mark 13:11)." [Note: Lane, p. 520.]
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