Matthew 21:7 is about Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey as a humble and peaceful king fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, demonstrating his role as the promised Messiah.
7 They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 21:7
In Matthew chapter 21, we find Jesus and his disciples approaching Jerusalem. As they near the city, Jesus instructs two of his disciples to go ahead and find a donkey and its colt tied up in a nearby village. He tells them that if anyone questions them, they are to say that the Lord needs them, and they will be allowed to bring the animals to him.
The disciples follow Jesus’ instructions and find the donkey and colt just as he said. They untie the animals and bring them to Jesus, laying their cloaks on the donkey’s back for Jesus to sit on. The disciples lead the donkey and colt to Jesus, and he mounts the donkey, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9 that the Messiah would come riding on a donkey.
Surrounded by his disciples and a growing crowd of followers, Jesus enters Jerusalem on the back of the donkey, with people spreading their cloaks on the road before him and others cutting branches from the trees to spread on the road. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and anticipation as the people recognize Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, shouting “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
What is Matthew 21:7 about?
Imagine witnessing the powerful image of Jesus entering Jerusalem on a humble donkey, knowing that it fulfilled ancient prophecies. This act was not only a fulfillment of scripture but also a powerful symbol of humility and peace. Jesus conveyed a message of humility and simplicity by choosing a donkey instead of a horse or chariot, reminding us that true power comes through humility and service to others. Riding a donkey also symbolizes peace. Rulers in ancient times rode on horses as a symbol of war and domination. However, Jesus choosing a donkey portrayed a message of peace and non-violence. It reminds us that true kingship is not about conquering through force, but about leading with love and compassion. Let us reflect on this powerful image and ponder how we can embody humility, peace, and servanthood in our own lives, following the example set by Jesus in this profound moment.
Understanding what Matthew 21:7 really means
In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry as He makes His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The scene is set with the disciples bringing a donkey and a colt to Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9. This act of bringing the humble animals to Jesus carries profound symbolism, contrasting the image of a war horse that symbolizes conquest and power. Instead, the donkey and colt represent humility and peace, qualities that Jesus embodies as the Prince of Peace.
As the disciples place their cloaks on the animals, it is a gesture of honor and submission, acknowledging Jesus as their King. When Jesus sits on them, it signifies His acceptance of His role as the Messiah and King. However, the choice of a donkey, a humble beast of burden, emphasizes Jesus’ kingship in a manner that highlights peace and humility over grandeur and dominance. This act challenges conventional notions of power and authority, inviting us to reconsider the true essence of leadership.
The parallel with Zechariah 9:9 and the fulfillment of this prophecy in Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem further solidifies the significance of this event. The Old Testament prophecy foretold the coming of a righteous and victorious king, riding on a donkey, a symbol of humility and peace. This imagery is echoed in John 12:14-15, emphasizing the fulfillment of ancient prophecies in Jesus’ actions. Even in 2 Kings 9:13, we see a similar act of spreading cloaks under a king, underscoring the symbolism of honor and recognition.
Today, the message of humility and peace in Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem remains as relevant as ever. In a world often consumed by the pursuit of power and success, this passage challenges us to embrace humility and gentleness in our interactions. It calls us to reevaluate our priorities and to prioritize service over self-aggrandizement. Just as Jesus chose the path of humility and peace, we are called to follow His example in our daily lives.
Consider the impact of humility and service in your own spheres of influence. Reflect on how you can honor others and acknowledge their contributions, following the disciples’ example of placing their cloaks on the donkey. Embrace a mindset of peace and humility in your interactions, mirroring Jesus’ approach to leadership. Let us strive to embody the qualities of humility and service that Jesus exemplified, recognizing that true greatness lies in serving others with love and compassion.
Are we willing to humble ourselves before God?
Jesus humbles Himself by riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy in the Old Testament. This act of humility by Jesus demonstrates to us the importance of humbling ourselves before God. We become more aligned with His purpose for our lives by acknowledging our need for God and submitting ourselves to His will. We are called to humble ourselves before God in all areas of our lives, just as Jesus humbled Himself by choosing a humble mode of transportation. This humility involves recognizing our own limitations, weaknesses, and sins, and coming before God with a contrite heart. When we humble ourselves before God, we allow Him to work in and through us, guiding us along His path and transforming us more into the image of Christ.
Humbling ourselves before God is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of true strength and faith. It requires us to let go of our pride, self-sufficiency, and independence, and fully rely on God’s grace, wisdom, and power. When we humble ourselves before God, we open ourselves up to His blessings, guidance, and transformation in ways that we could never achieve on our own.
Application
Imagine walking into your office or home with a heart full of humble purpose, just like Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. This isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about everyday actions grounded in humility and trust. Jesus fulfilled a divine plan with such simplicity, can’t we frame our work and family life with the same attitude? Are you ready to surrender to a higher purpose and follow with the same humble spirit Jesus showed?
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.