This essay reflects on the theological question of the future of Israel. Blaising defines "Israel" as a designation for the descendants of Jacob as an ethnic, cultural, and national entity. Consideration of the future of Israel is a question about the national future of the descendants of Jacob. The author does not ask about the future of Israel as a state.

The prayer of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane (see Matthew 26:37-45, Mark 14:33-41, Luke 22:40-46) reveals much about the life of our Lord. Why did Jesus pray this prayer? What is its significance? This essay offers some exegetical considerations.