Matthew Chapter 21 — The Triumphal Entry and Temple Teachings
Jesus enters Jerusalem as a king, cleanses the temple of merchants, and uses parables to challenge the authority of the religious leaders.
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Notable Verses
Matthew 21:9
“The multitudes who went in front of him, and those who followed, kept shouting, “Hosanna to the son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!””
This verse captures the public recognition of Jesus as the Messiah during his entry into Jerusalem.
Matthew 21:13
“He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a den of robbers!””
Jesus quotes the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah to explain his actions in cleansing the temple.
Matthew 21:22
“All things, whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”
Jesus emphasizes the power of prayer and faith to his disciples after the withering of the fig tree.
Chapter Summary
Matthew 21 recounts the final entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, riding a donkey to fulfill prophecy as crowds shout "Hosanna." Upon arrival, Jesus enters the temple and drives out those buying and selling, declaring it a house of prayer rather than a den of robbers. He performs healings and is praised by children, much to the indignation of the chief priests. The following day, Jesus curses a barren fig tree as a lesson on faith and prayer. Returning to the temple, he is questioned regarding his authority. In response, he presents the parables of the two sons and the wicked tenants, illustrating how the religious leaders have rejected God's messengers. The chapter concludes with the leaders recognizing that these parables were directed at them, though they fear the crowds who view Jesus as a prophet.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the text's footnotes, the word 'Hosanna' is an expression that means 'save us' or 'help us, we pray.' It was used by the crowds to welcome Jesus as the descendant of King David.
Jesus drove them out because they were using the temple grounds for commerce and profit. He stated that the temple was intended to be a 'house of prayer,' but they had turned it into a 'den of robbers.'
When the disciples saw the tree wither, Jesus taught them about the importance of faith without doubt. He explained that through prayer and belief, they would have the power to accomplish great things.
Jesus uses the parable to show that those who initially refuse but later repent and obey (like tax collectors and prostitutes) are more righteous than those who claim to be obedient but do not follow through.
Study Note
The 'Daughter of Zion' mentioned in verse 5 is a poetic personification of Jerusalem used frequently by Old Testament prophets.
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