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The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/matthew/26.htm">New Living Translation</a> Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” <a href="/esv/matthew/26.htm">English Standard Version</a> Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/bsb/matthew/26.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> “Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” <a href="/blb/matthew/26.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Watch and pray, that you do not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the flesh weak." <a href="/kjv/matthew/26.htm">King James Bible</a> Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. <a href="/nkjv/matthew/26.htm">New King James Version</a> Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/nasb_/matthew/26.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Keep watching and praying, so that you do not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/nasb/matthew/26.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/matthew/26.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “Keep watching and praying, that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/lsb/matthew/26.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/amp/matthew/26.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Keep actively watching and praying that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” <a href="/csb/matthew/26.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Stay awake and pray, so that you won’t enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/hcsb/matthew/26.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Stay awake and pray, so that you won&#8217t enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.&#8221 <a href="/asv/matthew/26.htm">American Standard Version</a> Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. <a href="/cev/matthew/26.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Stay awake and pray that you won't be tested. You want to do what is right, but you are weak." <a href="/erv/matthew/26.htm">English Revised Version</a> Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. <a href="/gwt/matthew/26.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Stay awake, and pray that you won't be tempted. You want to do what's right, but you're weak." <a href="/gnt/matthew/26.htm">Good News Translation</a> Keep watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." <a href="/isv/matthew/26.htm">International Standard Version</a> All of you must stay awake and pray that you won't be tempted. The spirit is indeed willing, but the body is weak." <a href="/net/matthew/26.htm">NET Bible</a> Stay awake and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." <a href="/nheb/matthew/26.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Watch and pray, that you do not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." <a href="/wbt/matthew/26.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. <a href="/wey/matthew/26.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Keep awake, and pray that you may not enter into temptation: the spirit is right willing, but the body is frail."<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/matthew/26.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> “Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” <a href="/web/matthew/26.htm">World English Bible</a> Watch and pray, that you don’t enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/matthew/26.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Watch, and pray, that you may not enter into temptation: the spirit indeed is forward, but the flesh weak.” <a href="/blb/matthew/26.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Watch and pray, that you do not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the flesh weak." <a href="/ylt/matthew/26.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> watch, and pray, that ye may not enter into temptation: the spirit indeed is forward, but the flesh weak.' <a href="/slt/matthew/26.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Watch and pray, lest ye come into temptation: truly the spirit of a ready will, and the flesh weak.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/matthew/26.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Watch ye, and pray that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh weak. <a href="/cpdv/matthew/26.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Be vigilant and pray, so that you may not enter into temptation. Indeed, the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/nabre/matthew/26.htm">New American Bible</a> Watch and pray that you may not undergo the test. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” <a href="/nrsvce/matthew/26.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Stay awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/matthew/26.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Awake and pray, that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is ready, but the body is weak. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/matthew/26.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> “Watch and pray lest you enter into temptation. The Spirit is ready, but the body is weak.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/matthew/26.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit is, willing, but the flesh is weak.<CM> <a href="/godbey/matthew/26.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> <FR>Watch and pray, that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.<Fr> <a href="/haweis/matthew/26.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh weak. <a href="/mace/matthew/26.htm">Mace New Testament</a> watch and pray that ye may not sink under the trial: the mind indeed is vigorous, but the flesh is weak. <a href="/wey/matthew/26.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Keep awake, and pray that you may not enter into temptation: the spirit is right willing, but the body is frail." <a href="/worrell/matthew/26.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> <FR>Watch, and pray, that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit, indeed, is willing, but the flesh is weak."<Fr> <a href="/worsley/matthew/26.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> <FR>Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.<Fr> <a href="/parallel/matthew/26-41.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hriiyJYqzvc?start=8205" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/matthew/26.htm">Jesus Prays at Gethsemane</a> …40Then Jesus returned to the disciples and found them sleeping. “Were you not able to keep watch with Me for one hour?” He asked Peter. 41<a href="/greek/1127.htm" title="1127: grēgoreite (V-PMA-2P) -- (a) I am awake (in the night), watch, (b) I am watchful, on the alert, vigilant. From egeiro; to keep awake, i.e. Watch.">“Watch</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4336.htm" title="4336: proseuchesthe (V-PMM/P-2P) -- To pray, pray for, offer prayer. From pros and euchomai; to pray to God, i.e. Supplicate, worship.">pray</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">so that</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether."></a> <a href="/greek/1525.htm" title="1525: eiselthēte (V-ASA-2P) -- To go in, come in, enter. From eis and erchomai; to enter.">you will not enter</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">into</a> <a href="/greek/3986.htm" title="3986: peirasmon (N-AMS) -- From peirazo; a putting to proof (of good), experience (of evil), solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity.">temptation.</a> <a href="/greek/3303.htm" title="3303: men (Conj) -- A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de.">For</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-NNS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/4151.htm" title="4151: pneuma (N-NNS) -- Wind, breath, spirit. ">spirit</a> <a href="/greek/4289.htm" title="4289: prothymon (Adj-NNS) -- Eager, ready, willing, prompt. From pro and thumos; forward in spirit, i.e. Predisposed; neuter alacrity.">is willing,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/4561.htm" title="4561: sarx (N-NFS) -- Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. ">body</a> <a href="/greek/772.htm" title="772: asthenēs (Adj-NFS) -- (lit: not strong), (a) weak (physically, or morally), (b) infirm, sick. Strengthless.">is weak.” </a> 42A second time He went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cup cannot pass unless I drink it, may Your will be done.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/mark/14-38.htm">Mark 14:38</a> Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” <a href="/luke/22-40.htm">Luke 22:40</a> When He came to the place, He told them, “Pray that you will not enter into temptation.” <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a> Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-12.htm">1 Corinthians 10:12-13</a> So the one who thinks he is standing firm should be careful not to fall. / No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide an escape, so that you can stand up under it. <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Ephesians 6:18</a> Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints. <a href="/romans/8-26.htm">Romans 8:26</a> In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know how we ought to pray, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words. <a href="/galatians/5-16.htm">Galatians 5:16-17</a> So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. / For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want. <a href="/james/1-14.htm">James 1:14-15</a> But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. / Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-6.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:6</a> So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober. <a href="/colossians/4-2.htm">Colossians 4:2</a> Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful, <a href="/proverbs/4-23.htm">Proverbs 4:23</a> Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life. <a href="/psalms/119-133.htm">Psalm 119:133</a> Order my steps in Your word; let no sin rule over me. <a href="/isaiah/40-29.htm">Isaiah 40:29-31</a> He gives power to the faint and increases the strength of the weak. / Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall. / But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. <a href="/proverbs/16-32.htm">Proverbs 16:32</a> He who is slow to anger is better than a warrior, and he who controls his temper is greater than one who captures a city. <a href="/psalms/19-13.htm">Psalm 19:13</a> Keep Your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then I will be blameless and cleansed of great transgression.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.Watch.<a href="/matthew/24-42.htm">Matthew 24:42</a> Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.<a href="/matthew/25-13.htm">Matthew 25:13</a> Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.<a href="/mark/13-33.htm">Mark 13:33-37</a> Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is… enter.<a href="/matthew/6-13.htm">Matthew 6:13</a> And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.<a href="/proverbs/4-14.htm">Proverbs 4:14,15</a> Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men… <a href="/luke/8-13.htm">Luke 8:13</a> They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.the spirit.<a href="/psalms/119-4.htm">Psalm 119:4,5,24,25,32,35-37,115,117,1</a> Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently… <a href="/isaiah/26-8.htm">Isaiah 26:8,9</a> Yea, in the way of thy judgments, O LORD, have we waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee… <a href="/romans/7-18.htm">Romans 7:18-25</a> For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/matthew/26-40.htm">Awake</a> <a href="/matthew/26-26.htm">Body</a> <a href="/matthew/25-23.htm">Enter</a> <a href="/matthew/26-33.htm">Fall</a> <a href="/matthew/24-22.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/matthew/26-39.htm">Forward</a> <a href="/psalms/39-4.htm">Frail</a> <a href="/matthew/26-24.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/matthew/26-39.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/matthew/6-7.htm">Praying</a> <a href="/matthew/26-19.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/matthew/25-34.htm">Right</a> <a href="/matthew/22-43.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/matthew/6-13.htm">Temptation</a> <a href="/matthew/22-35.htm">Test</a> <a href="/matthew/26-40.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/matthew/26-16.htm">Watching</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-16.htm">Weak</a> <a href="/matthew/26-15.htm">Willing</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/mark/4-27.htm">Awake</a> <a href="/matthew/27-58.htm">Body</a> <a href="/mark/1-45.htm">Enter</a> <a href="/mark/3-11.htm">Fall</a> <a href="/mark/7-22.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/matthew/26-50.htm">Forward</a> <a href="/mark/14-38.htm">Frail</a> <a href="/mark/1-8.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/matthew/26-42.htm">Prayer</a> <a href="/mark/1-35.htm">Praying</a> <a href="/matthew/27-62.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/matthew/26-58.htm">Right</a> <a href="/matthew/27-50.htm">Spirit</a> <a href="/mark/14-38.htm">Temptation</a> <a href="/mark/8-11.htm">Test</a> <a href="/matthew/27-36.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/matthew/27-36.htm">Watching</a> <a href="/mark/9-24.htm">Weak</a> <a href="/mark/1-40.htm">Willing</a><div class="vheading2">Matthew 26</div>1. <a href="/matthew/26-1.htm">Jesus foretells his own death.</a> 3. <a href="/matthew/26-3.htm">The rulers conspire against him.</a> 6. <a href="/matthew/26-6.htm">The woman anoints his feet.</a> 14. <a href="/matthew/26-14.htm">Judas bargains to betray him.</a> 17. <a href="/matthew/26-17.htm">Jesus eats the Passover;</a> 26. <a href="/matthew/26-26.htm">institutes his holy supper;</a> 30. <a href="/matthew/26-30.htm">foretells the desertion of his disciples, and Peter's denial;</a> 36. <a href="/matthew/26-36.htm">prays in the garden;</a> 47. <a href="/matthew/26-47.htm">and being betrayed by a kiss,</a> 57. <a href="/matthew/26-57.htm">is carried to Caiaphas,</a> 69. <a href="/matthew/26-69.htm">and denied by Peter.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/26.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/matthew/26.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Watch and pray This phrase emphasizes the importance of vigilance and prayer in the life of a believer. In the context of <a href="/matthew/26.htm">Matthew 26</a>, Jesus is speaking to His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane, a place of olive presses located on the Mount of Olives, just outside Jerusalem. The command to "watch" suggests staying alert and being spiritually awake, a theme echoed in other scriptures such as <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">1 Peter 5:8</a>, where believers are urged to be sober and vigilant because of the adversary, the devil. Prayer is a means of seeking divine strength and guidance, as seen throughout Jesus' ministry (e.g., <a href="/luke/5-16.htm">Luke 5:16</a>). The combination of watching and praying is a defense against spiritual complacency and the snares of the enemy.so that you will not enter into temptation. This part of the verse highlights the purpose of watching and praying: to avoid falling into temptation. Temptation here refers to trials or situations that could lead to sin. The disciples were about to face a severe test with Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. The Greek word for "temptation" (peirasmos) can also mean testing or trial, indicating both external pressures and internal struggles. <a href="/james/1-14.htm">James 1:14-15</a> explains how temptation can lead to sin when one is drawn away by their own desires. Jesus' instruction is a reminder of the human tendency to succumb to temptation without divine assistance.For the spirit is willing, This phrase acknowledges the inner desire or intention to do what is right. The "spirit" refers to the human spirit, which, in a redeemed person, desires to follow God's will. This is consistent with Paul's teaching in <a href="/romans/7-22.htm">Romans 7:22-23</a>, where he describes the inner conflict between the desire to obey God's law and the reality of human weakness. The willingness of the spirit is a recognition of the believer's sincere intentions and aspirations to live according to God's purposes.but the body is weak. The "body" or "flesh" represents human frailty and susceptibility to sin. This weakness is not just physical tiredness, as the disciples experienced in the garden, but also a metaphor for the sinful nature that struggles against the spirit's desires. <a href="/galatians/5-17.htm">Galatians 5:17</a> describes this conflict between the flesh and the spirit, highlighting the ongoing battle within believers. The acknowledgment of the body's weakness underscores the need for reliance on God's strength, as human effort alone is insufficient to overcome temptation.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus_christ.htm">Jesus Christ</a> The central figure in this passage, offering guidance to His disciples during a critical moment in the Garden of Gethsemane. 2. <a href="/topical/d/disciples.htm">Disciples</a> Specifically, Peter, James, and John, who were with Jesus in the garden and were instructed to stay awake and pray. 3. <a href="/topical/g/garden_of_gethsemane.htm">Garden of Gethsemane</a> The location where Jesus prayed before His arrest, a place of deep spiritual struggle and preparation. 4. <a href="/topical/t/temptation.htm">Temptation</a> The trial or testing that Jesus warns His disciples about, which can lead to sin if not resisted. 5. <a href="/topical/s/spirit_and_body.htm">Spirit and Body</a> Represents the dual nature of humanity, where the spirit desires to follow God, but the physical body is prone to weakness.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_vigilance.htm">The Importance of Vigilance</a> Jesus emphasizes the need to be spiritually alert. In our daily lives, we must remain watchful against the subtle ways temptation can creep in. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_prayer.htm">The Power of Prayer</a> Prayer is a vital tool in resisting temptation. It connects us to God's strength and guidance, helping us overcome our weaknesses. <a href="/topical/u/understanding_human_weakness.htm">Understanding Human Weakness</a> Acknowledge that while our spirit may be willing to follow Christ, our flesh is weak. This awareness should drive us to rely more on God's strength. <a href="/topical/t/the_dual_nature_of_humanity.htm">The Dual Nature of Humanity</a> Recognize the ongoing battle between the spirit and the flesh. Cultivate spiritual disciplines that strengthen the spirit and subdue the flesh. <a href="/topical/p/preparation_for_spiritual_battles.htm">Preparation for Spiritual Battles</a> Just as Jesus prepared for His crucifixion through prayer, we must prepare for our spiritual battles by staying connected to God.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_matthew_26.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Matthew 26</a> <a href="/q/are_you_vigilant_and_prayerful_daily.htm">Are you vigilant and prayerful in your daily life?</a> <a href="/q/how_is_the_bride_'asleep'_yet_'awake'.htm">How can the bride be “asleep” yet her heart is “awake” in Song of Solomon 5:2, and does this concept align with any known scientific or psychological states? </a> <a href="/q/what_defines_a_prayer_vigil.htm">What defines a prayer vigil?</a> <a href="/q/meaning_of_'spirit_willing,_flesh_weak'.htm">What does "The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/matthew/26.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(41) Watch and pray.--The first word is eminently characteristic of our Lord's teaching at this period (<a href="/matthew/24-42.htm" title="Watch therefore: for you know not what hour your Lord does come.">Matthew 24:42</a>; <a href="/matthew/25-13.htm" title="Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man comes.">Matthew 25:13</a>). It became the watchword of the early disciples (<a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm" title="Watch you, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.">1Corinthians 16:13</a>; <a href="/colossians/4-2.htm" title=" Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;">Colossians 4:2</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-6.htm" title="Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.">1Thessalonians 5:6</a>; <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm" title="Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour:">1Peter 5:8</a>). It left its mark in the history of Christendom in the new names of Gregory, and Vigilius, or Vigilantius, "the watcher." . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/matthew/26.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 41. - Watch (ye) and pray. A summary of Christian duty. Watchfulness sees temptation coming; prayer gives strength to withstand it. The apostles needed the injunction at this moment; for their great trial was close at hand. That ye enter not (in order that ye may not eater) into temptation. The phrase is usually interpreted to mean either to fall into temptation, to be tempted, or to run wilfully into temptation; but it seems to be better, with Grotius, to take it in the sense of succumbing to, falling under, being vanquished by temptation, like ἐμπίπτειν in <a href="/1_timothy/6-9.htm">1 Timothy 6:9</a>, "immergi et succumbere." That Peter and the rest were now to be tempted was certain (<a href="/luke/22-31.htm">Luke 22:31, 32</a>), and it was too late to deprecate the trial; but it was right and expedient to ask of God grace to withstand in the evil hour. The spirit (πνεῦμα) indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. This was an added motive for vigilance and prayer. The apostles had shown a certain readiness of spirit when they offered to die with Christ (ver. 35); but the flesh, the material and lower nature, represses the higher impulse, checks the will, and prevents it from carrying out that which it is prompted to perform (see the action of these contrariant forces noticed by St. Paul, <a href="/romans/7.htm">Romans 7</a>.). "For the corruptible body presseth down the soul, and the earthy tabernacle weigheth down the mind that museth upon many things" (Wisd. 9:15). Our Lord at this very time was experiencing and exemplifying the truth of his saying, though in his ease the weakness of the flesh was entirely overmastered by the willing spirit. It is noted that Polycarp quotes this maxim of Christ in his 'Epistle to the Philippians,' ch. 7. <a href="/commentaries/matthew/26-41.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>“Watch γρηγορεῖτε (grēgoreite) Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1127.htm">Strong's 1127: </a> (a) I am awake (in the night), watch, (b) I am watchful, on the alert, vigilant. From egeiro; to keep awake, i.e. Watch. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. pray προσεύχεσθε (proseuchesthe) Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4336.htm">Strong's 4336: </a> To pray, pray for, offer prayer. From pros and euchomai; to pray to God, i.e. Supplicate, worship. so that ἵνα (hina) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that. you will not enter εἰσέλθητε (eiselthēte) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1525.htm">Strong's 1525: </a> To go in, come in, enter. From eis and erchomai; to enter. into εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. temptation. πειρασμόν (peirasmon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3986.htm">Strong's 3986: </a> From peirazo; a putting to proof (of good), experience (of evil), solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity. For μὲν (men) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3303.htm">Strong's 3303: </a> A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de. the τὸ (to) Article - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. spirit πνεῦμα (pneuma) Noun - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4151.htm">Strong's 4151: </a> Wind, breath, spirit. [is] willing, πρόθυμον (prothymon) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4289.htm">Strong's 4289: </a> Eager, ready, willing, prompt. From pro and thumos; forward in spirit, i.e. Predisposed; neuter alacrity. but δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. the ἡ (hē) Article - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. body σὰρξ (sarx) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4561.htm">Strong's 4561: </a> Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred. [is] weak.” ἀσθενής (asthenēs) Adjective - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_772.htm">Strong's 772: </a> (lit: not strong), (a) weak (physically, or morally), (b) infirm, sick. Strengthless. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/matthew/26-41.htm">Matthew 26:41 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/matthew/26-41.htm">NT Gospels: Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray that you don't enter (Matt. Mat Mt) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/matthew/26-40.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Matthew 26:40"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Matthew 26:40" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/matthew/26-42.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Matthew 26:42"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Matthew 26:42" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>