Book of Luke - Chapter 22 - Verse 46
Meaning
When Jesus said to his disciples, "Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation," he was warning them of the need for vigilance and spiritual preparation. The disciples had just witnessed Jesus praying fervently in the garden of Gethsemane, while they struggled to stay awake. Jesus knew that they were about to face a great trial, and he wanted them to be spiritually ready. By urging them to pray and stay alert, Jesus was emphasizing the importance of relying on God's strength and guidance in times of difficulty. He knew that temptation was near, and he wanted to ensure that his disciples were spiritually equipped to withstand it. This verse serves as a reminder to all believers to stay connected to God through prayer and to be on guard against spiritual attacks.
Theological Overview
When Jesus spoke to his disciples saying, "Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation," he was emphasizing the importance of being vigilant and spiritually prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the need for constant prayer and staying alert to avoid falling into sin or temptation. The word "sleep" here can symbolize spiritual complacency or unawareness of the spiritual battles that believers may face. By urging his disciples to rise and pray, Jesus was instructing them to stay connected with God through prayer, which strengthens their faith and protects them from giving in to temptation. This verse serves as a reminder for all believers to prioritize their spiritual health and relationship with God through prayer, as a way to overcome trials and challenges that may come their way.