Going a little way forward, Jesus drops to the ground and with his face to the ground begins earnestly praying: “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from me. Yet, not as I will, but as you will.” What does he mean? Why is he “deeply grieved, even to death”? Is he backing down from his decision to die and provide the ransom?

Not at all! Jesus is not appealing to be spared from death. Even the thought of avoiding a sacrificial death, once suggested by Peter, is repugnant to him. Rather, he is in agony because he fears that the way he will soon die​—as a despicable criminal—​will bring reproach upon his Father’s name. He now senses that in a few hours he is going to be impaled upon a stake as the worst kind of person​—a blasphemer against God! This is what sorely troubles him.

Jesus then goes off a second time and requests that God remove from him “this cup,” that is, Jehovah’s assigned portion, or will, for him.

Finally, a third time, Jesus goes away, about the distance of a stone’s throw, and on bended knees, with strong outcries and tears, he prays: “Father, if you wish, remove this cup from me.” Jesus keenly feels severe pains because of the reproach that his death as a criminal will bring on his Father’s name. Why, to be charged as a blasphemer​—one who curses God—​is almost too much to bear!

Nevertheless, Jesus continues to pray: “Not what I want, but what you want.” Jesus obediently submits his will to God’s.