When Jesus went into Jerusalem, He had a specific task that He wanted His disciples to complete. But before we delve into that, let’s take a look at the context behind this event.
The Context
Jesus and His disciples were on their way to Jerusalem for the Passover feast. This was a significant event for the Jewish people, as it commemorated their liberation from slavery in Egypt. Jesus knew that this would be His last trip to Jerusalem before His crucifixion.
The Request
As they approached Bethphage and Bethany near the Mount of Olives, Jesus made a request to two of His disciples.
“Go to the village ahead of you,” he said, “and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.
If anyone asks you why you are untying it, say that the Lord needs it.”
The Significance
At first glance, this request may seem trivial or even strange. However, Jesus had a specific purpose in mind when He asked for the colt. In doing so, He fulfilled an Old Testament prophecy found in Zechariah 9:9:
“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem!
See, your king comes to you,
righteous and victorious,
lowly and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey. “
By riding on a colt that had never been ridden before (a symbol of purity), Jesus was fulfilling this prophecy and declaring Himself as the long-awaited Messiah.
The Response
The two disciples did as Jesus instructed them and found the colt just as He had said. When they were untying it, the owners of the colt asked them why they were doing so. The disciples replied with Jesus’ words, and the owners allowed them to take the colt.
The Lesson
This event teaches us several valuable lessons. Firstly, it shows us that Jesus is in control of every situation and can work through even the smallest details to fulfill His purposes.
Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of obedience. The disciples could have questioned Jesus’ request or doubted that they would find the colt as He had said. But they chose to obey without hesitation, and in doing so, they played a significant role in fulfilling prophecy.
Finally, it reminds us that Jesus is not just a prophet or teacher but is indeed the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. By riding on a colt into Jerusalem, He was making a bold declaration about His identity and fulfilling God’s plan for salvation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, before entering Jerusalem for His final Passover feast, Jesus asked two of His disciples to bring Him a colt that had never been ridden before. By doing so, He fulfilled an Old Testament prophecy and declared Himself as the Messiah. This event teaches us about the importance of obedience and reminds us that Jesus is not just a teacher but is indeed our King.