Mark 11:1-8 is about Jesus entering Jerusalem triumphantly on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah, as the crowd welcomes Him with joy and praises, recognizing Him as the long-awaited Messiah.
1 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples
2 and said to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it.
3 And if anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord has need of it and will send it back here immediately.’
4 And they went away and found a colt tied at a door outside in the street, and they untied it.
5 And some of those standing there said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?”
6 And they said to them what Jesus had said, and they let them go.
7 And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it, and he sat on it.
8 And many spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields.
Setting the Scene for Mark 11:1-8
In Mark chapter 11, we find Jesus and his disciples approaching Jerusalem during the time of the Passover. As they near the Mount of Olives, Jesus instructs two of his disciples to go into a nearby village where they will find a colt tied up, one that no one has ever ridden. He tells them to bring the colt to him, and if anyone questions them, to simply say that the Lord needs it. The disciples follow Jesus’ instructions and find the colt just as he said.
The disciples bring the colt to Jesus, and they lay their cloaks on it for him to sit on. As they continue on their journey, a large crowd begins to gather, spreading their cloaks on the road and cutting branches from the fields to spread on the path before Jesus. The people in the crowd start shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” The atmosphere is filled with excitement and anticipation as the crowd recognizes Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah.
The scene is one of jubilation and reverence as Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on the colt, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9. The disciples and the crowd are caught up in the moment, celebrating the arrival of their King. The city is bustling with activity as people from all around have come to Jerusalem for the Passover, and news of Jesus’ miracles and teachings has spread far and wide. The air is filled with anticipation and hope as the people welcome Jesus with shouts of praise and adoration.
What is Mark 11:1-8 about?
Jesus instructs His disciples to fetch a colt for His entry into Jerusalem in this verse. On the surface, this may seem like a simple task of obtaining a mode of transportation. However, there is a deeper significance to this action. Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 by riding into Jerusalem on a colt, which foretold that the Messiah would come humbly, riding on a donkey’s colt. This act symbolizes Jesus’ fulfillment of messianic prophecies and establishes His identity as the long-awaited Savior. Jesus also demonstrates humility and meekness by choosing to enter Jerusalem in this manner. Despite having the power to command armies or ride in on a grand chariot, Jesus chooses simplicity and humility. This act serves as a powerful example for His disciples and all believers, showing that true greatness lies in humility and service. It challenges us to reflect on our own attitudes towards power and status, urging us to embrace humility and meekness in our own lives. Let us ponder on this verse and consider how we can emulate Jesus’ humility in our daily actions and interactions with others.
Understanding what Mark 11:1-8 really means
The passage in Mark 11:1-8 recounts the momentous occasion of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a pivotal event in Christian theology. Here, Jesus displays His divine authority by instructing His disciples to fetch a colt for Him to ride, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. This act not only demonstrates Jesus’ foreknowledge but also symbolizes the purity and holiness of the colt, set apart for a sacred purpose.
In the key phrases of the passage, Jesus’ command to go into the village opposite signifies His omniscience and sovereignty, while the statement about the colt being unridden underscores its consecration for a special task. The declaration that “The Lord has need of it” further emphasizes Jesus’ authority and the alignment of events with God’s overarching plan.
Related biblical passages such as Zechariah 9:9, Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, and John 12:12-19 provide additional context and perspectives on the triumphal entry. These passages collectively highlight the prophetic significance of Jesus’ actions and the expectations surrounding His messianic identity.
For contemporary believers, the narrative offers valuable lessons on faith, obedience, humility, and service. The disciples’ immediate compliance with Jesus’ instructions serves as a model for trusting and following God’s guidance without hesitation. Jesus’ deliberate choice of a humble colt over a majestic horse underscores the importance of humility and servant leadership in the Christian walk.
By reflecting on this passage, individuals today are encouraged to trust in God’s plan, embrace humility, and engage in selfless service to others. Just as Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on a colt inspired awe and humility, modern-day believers are called to embody these virtues in their daily lives. Ultimately, the triumphal entry serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and the enduring relevance of humility and service in the Christian faith.
What burdens and obstacles am I placing before Jesus?
It seems like you are placing burdens and obstacles before Jesus by not fully trusting in His power and sovereignty. You may be hindering Jesus from working in your life by focusing on your own limitations and doubts. Instead of approaching situations with faith and confidence that Jesus is able to handle them, you may be inadvertently limiting His ability to work miracles in your life.
It is essential to remember that Jesus is capable of handling any burden or obstacle that comes your way. You allow Him to work in ways that you may not have thought possible by surrendering your worries and doubts to Him. Trusting in Jesus’s power and sovereignty rather than relying solely on your own strength can open the door for Him to perform incredible miracles in your life.
Therefore, it is important to release control and trust in Jesus completely. You allow Him to work in ways that are far beyond what you could imagine by surrendering your burdens and obstacles to Him. Let go of doubt and fear, and have faith that Jesus is able to handle any challenge that you may face.
Application
Think of Jesus entering Jerusalem, like a leader arriving at your workplace, welcomed warmly. Just as people laid down cloaks for Him, lay down your worries and accept His guidance. Remember, those same people who praised Him later turned away. Are you everyday steadfast in your faith? Let’s welcome Him into our hearts and stand firm. Are you ready to truly commit and follow Him today?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.