The Garden of Gethsemane is an iconic location in the Christian faith. It was in this garden that Jesus Christ spent his last moments before his crucifixion.
While it is well-known that Jesus went to the garden with some of his disciples, there is often confusion about which disciples were with him. In this article, we will take a closer look at which disciples accompanied Jesus to the Garden of Gethsemane.
The Context
Before we dive into the list of disciples who went to the garden with Jesus, let’s first set the context. The Garden of Gethsemane is located on the Mount of Olives, just east of Jerusalem. It was a place where Jesus and his disciples often retreated for prayer and meditation.
On the night before his crucifixion, Jesus took three of his closest disciples with him to pray in the garden. He asked them to keep watch while he prayed alone.
Which Disciples Went to The Garden?
Now that we have set the context, let’s take a look at which disciples were present in the garden that night.
Peter: Peter was one of Jesus’ closest disciples and one of the first apostles. He was known for being impulsive and passionate about serving Jesus. When they arrived at the garden, Jesus asked Peter, James, and John to keep watch while he prayed.
James: James was also part of Jesus’ inner circle along with Peter and John. He was known as “James the Greater” to distinguish him from another disciple named James.
John: John was another one of Jesus’ closest friends and followers. He is often referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” John wrote several books in the New Testament including the Gospel of John, three letters, and Revelation.
These three were specifically called out by Jesus to stay with him and pray, while the other disciples were left behind. In Matthew 26:37-38, it says, “He took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.”
What About the Other Disciples?
While Peter, James, and John were the only ones who accompanied Jesus into the garden itself, there were other disciples waiting nearby. According to some accounts, Judas Iscariot was also present that night but left to betray Jesus.
It’s important to note that just because a disciple wasn’t specifically named as being in the garden doesn’t mean they weren’t present. However, there is no evidence in the Bible that any other disciples were there that night.
The Importance of The Garden of Gethsemane
The Garden of Gethsemane is significant not just because it was where Jesus spent his last moments before his crucifixion but also because it represents a moment of intense struggle for Jesus. In Matthew 26:39-42, it says:
“And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father if it be possible let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will but as thou wilt.. He went away again the second time and prayed saying O my Father if this cup may not pass away from me except I drink it thy will be done.”
This moment in the garden represents a turning point for Jesus where he fully came to terms with what was about to happen. It was here that he surrendered himself to God’s will and accepted his fate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jesus took Peter, James, and John with him to the Garden of Gethsemane on the night before his crucifixion. While there were other disciples nearby, there is no evidence that any others were present in the garden itself. The Garden of Gethsemane is a significant location in Christian history as it represents a moment of intense struggle and surrender for Jesus.