Principles for Christian Leaders

Values the sacrifice of Jesus

Three times Christ prayed, “Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me.” It was here that the destiny of a lost world hung in the balance. Should He refuse to drink the cup, the result would be eternal ruin to the human race. But an angel from heaven strengthened the Son of God to accept the cup and drink its bitter woe. What if His request had been granted, and the cup had passed from Him? The scene that was presented before me as the result of such a decision made me for a time lose all consciousness. When I aroused, the scene was presented to me again and again until it had passed before me three times. PCL 101.1

For whom was all this agony and shame endured? It was for those who claim to be leaders in the church, those who claim to have an experience in religious lines, as well as for the open sinner. How few there are who realize that all this was borne for them individually; how few who say, It was for me, that I might form a character for the future immortal life.—MS 43, 1909 (May 29) PCL 101.2