The King Of Glory (Matthew 21:1-11)

What this episode covers

Charismatic leaders have deceived entire nations into following them. They have stirred up support to enter into unjust wars. They have tortured and slaughtered innocent people (oftentimes their own citizens) in order to extend their wealth and power. History is full of leaders of that sort. The King of Kings was radically different. Rather than earning wealth and power, the second person of the Trinity was willing to empty himself of his heavenly prerogatives. He humbled himself taking on flesh, and coming in the likeness of man. And he did it at a time when his family had to flee for safety from one of the most notorious examples of evil, namely King Herod the Great. Rather than forcing his way into the limelight, clamoring for attention, Jesus remained in relative obscurity for most of his life and ministry. But the knowledge of his identity took a drastic turn in our passage this morning. Many will declare him to be the Messiah, but their expectations of what he would do were significantly misinformed. They will acknowledge Jesus to be the Son of David, the Messiah of Israel — which is true — but a week later, he will be rejected and condemned. Instead of the cruel exercise of power, Jesus submitted himself to the excruciating torture and death of the Roman cross. Between today and next Sunday, I encourage you to read the accounts of the death of Jesus. That will prepare us all for the celebration of Resurrection Sunday next week! Matthew was a Jew writing to fellow Jews with the purpose of convincing them that Jesus was the Messiah. He makes it clear throughout the gospel that Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecy about the Messiah. One of the ways this impacts Matthew’s gospel is his frequent quotes and allusions from the Old Testament to show that Jesus not acting arbitrarily. He has a redemptive purpose behind his actions. Another feature of Matthew’s gospel is its highlighting of Christ’s royal or kingly role. The title “Christ” in Greek is the translation of the Hebrew word “Messiah” which means “Anointed One”. Jesus is now entering his final week, and he knows it. In terms of redemptive history, everything leads up to or points back to this week. There was absolutely no more significant time in history. Those who declare Jesus as Messiah must know the implications of making that declaration. We can sing easily enough. We can take a few hours out of our morning to attend a parade. For some, Church has become little more than an annual pilgrimage made around this time every year… Those who declare Jesus as Messiah must be willing to follow him as their King. That implies that have been subdued by him and have submitted themselves to his sovereign rule. Pray and Read Matthew 21:1-11. 1. The King’s Preparation (1-7) Instruction (1-3) As they near Jerusalem, while passing over the Mount of Olives at Bethphage, Jesus can see the temple a few miles in than distance. He instructs two of his disciples to get the donkey and colt. He tells them where to find them and what to say if someone asks them anything. This seems to be related to the right of requisitioning that was practiced by kings and sometimes by Jewish rabbi. Jesus probably made arrangements during the few days he had already been in Bethany (according to John). This “password” (“The Lord needs them”) was given for the exchange when Jesus was ready to enter Jerusalem. Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey reveals his identity and purpose (4-5) Matthew breaks up Jesus’ instruction to the disciples and their obedience with an explicit reference to the Old Testament. Matthew, again, makes Jesus’ Messianic identity explicit by quoting how this instruction was given in order to fulfill Zech. 9:9, a section of prophecy that promises Israel’s liberation. Why a donkey? Donkeys were associated with royalty and wealth (Jdgs 10:4; 12:14 see sermon notes). Social elites traveled on donkeys. However, they were also considered “beasts

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