Mark 14:36
And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.
Mark 14:36 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Gospel of Mark (14:36), Jesus addresses God as "Abba, Father," expressing a close and intimate relationship with his heavenly Father. He acknowledges the omnipotence of God, stating that all things are possible for Him. Jesus then humbly asks God to "take away this cup" from him, referring to the suffering and sacrifice he is about to endure. Despite his human desire to avoid the impending hardship, Jesus ultimately submits to God's will, saying, "nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt." This demonstrates Jesus' unwavering faith and obedience to God's divine plan, even in the face of great personal struggle. By including this verse on our website, we aim to highlight Jesus' example of surrendering to God's will and trusting in His ultimate purpose, inspiring readers to emulate this faith and submission in their own lives.
Theological Overview
In this poignant moment from the Gospel of Mark, we witness Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, expressing his distress to God the Father. The term 'Abba' used by Jesus is a tender Aramaic word that translates to 'Father', emphasizing a deep personal relationship between Jesus and God. By addressing God as both 'Abba' and 'Father', Jesus shows a unique intimacy and trust in his divine parent. Jesus acknowledges the omnipotence of God by stating, 'all things are possible unto thee', recognizing God's unlimited power and ability to intervene. However, despite his own desires and the impending suffering he knows he must endure, Jesus submits to the divine will, saying, 'nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt'. This powerful statement reveals Jesus' obedience, surrender, and ultimate acceptance of God's plan, even in the face of great anguish and turmoil. Through Jesus' example, we are reminded of the importance of trust in God's sovereignty and the necessity of aligning our will with His.
Mark 14:36 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; remove this cup from me: howbeit not what I will, but what thou wilt.
World English Bible
He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Please remove this cup from me. However, not what I desire, but what you desire.”
Douay-Rheims
And he saith: Abba, Father, all things are possible to thee: remove this chalice from me; but not what I will, but what thou wilt.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he saide, Abba, Father, all things are possible vnto thee: take away this cup from me: neuertheles not that I will, but that thou wilt, be done.