Matthew 21:22 – "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." Tag someone in need of prayer, and kindly share your prayer requests here. https://bit.ly/3GdFXpR Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bA7AslUerYk
Wisam’s Leap: Boldly Sharing Jesus in a Muslim Community
This video follows Wisam, who shares his Christian perspective in a Muslim school, sponsors a library, and studies the Bible with Muslim men. Witness his faith in action and the respect he gains. Leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
#WisamJourney #FaithSharing #ChristianInMuslimCommunity #awr #adventistworldradio #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_yzFQcqFNo
Giovanni 4:14 – Domenica 25 agosto 2024
“Ma chi beve dell'acqua che io gli darò non avrà mai più sete in eterno; ma l'acqua che io gli darò diventerà in lui una fonte d'acqua che zampilla in vita eterna.” (Giovanni 4:14) Meditazione giornaliera “Apri la porta del tuo cuore”. Rubrica a cura di Anna Cupertino. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aq95pyurdD8
Lesson 9.Jerusalem Controversies | 9.1 The Triumphal Entry | THE BOOK OF MARK | LIVING FAITH
Lesson 9.Jerusalem Controversies
The Final Journey: Jesus’ Revelation and Challenges in Jerusalem
In Lesson 9, we accompany Jesus during the last days of His earthly ministry as He engages in intense confrontations with the religious leaders of His time in Jerusalem. These confrontations are marked by the attempts of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes to discredit Jesus through tricky questions and devious traps. However, Jesus responds with divine wisdom and reveals profound truths that touch the heart of faith. In these encounters, not only does His divine authority shine through, but also the central core of His teaching: love for God and neighbor. This lesson challenges us to examine our own faith and seek God’s wisdom and guidance in every situation.
9.1 The Triumphal Entry
Jesus’ Revelation as Messiah
Read Mark 11:1–11 and Zechariah 9:9–10. What is happening here?
The story of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, as described in Mark 11:1-11 and linked to the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9-10, has a profound symbolic and prophetic significance. By entering Jerusalem on a donkey, Jesus fulfills the Old Testament promise and reveals Himself as the promised King of Israel. The account of the two disciples fetching the donkey not only emphasizes the precision of Jesus’ instructions and His prophetic authority but also directly connects the events with Old Testament prophecies.
The significant focus on this account underscores the importance of the moment: Jesus is now publicly claiming His role as Messiah, after having often insisted on hiding His true identity during His ministry. The entry on a donkey is a deliberate and powerful symbolic act that emphasizes the humility and peace characterizing His kingdom, in contrast to a king riding into the city on a war horse.
Additionally, this action recalls Solomon’s entry, who was crowned riding a donkey, establishing a strong connection to the Davidic line and the promise of an eternal throne. Thus, Jesus is not only presenting Himself as a king but as the promised successor to David, whose reign has a spiritual and eternal dimension.
Jesus’ entry marks a turning point in the Gospels: the time of restraint is over, and Jesus openly steps forth as the Messiah. The city of Jerusalem, filled with expectations and emotions, becomes the stage for the decisive final days of His earthly life. The apparent retreat at the end of the day may heighten the tension, but it is clear that the events of the following day will usher in a new phase in Jesus’ mission.
The idea of riding a donkey evokes the notion of humility. Why is this a very important trait, especially for Christians? What can we be proud of in the face of the cross?
The concept of riding a donkey is a powerful symbol of humility and peace. In the ancient world, a donkey was not the mount of kings or warriors, who rode horses, but rather a symbol of modesty and service. By entering Jerusalem on a donkey, Jesus deliberately presents Himself as a different kind of king—not as a mighty conqueror, but as a servant and bringer of peace. This humility is a central trait, especially for Christians, as it reflects the essence of the Christian faith and lifestyle.
Humility is important because it expresses our acknowledgment of our dependence on God. It stands in contrast to pride and self-righteousness, which can obscure our view of God and our fellow human beings. A humble heart recognizes that all good gifts and abilities ultimately come from God and that we can achieve nothing by our own power. Jesus Himself embodies this humility by choosing the path of suffering and the cross, despite being the Son of God (Philippians 2:5-8).
In the face of the cross, it becomes clear that there is nothing to be proud of except what Christ has done for us. The cross is the ultimate symbol of self-sacrifice and God’s love. It reminds us that our redemption was not achieved through our own works or accomplishments but solely through God’s grace and Jesus’ sacrifice. Any pride we might have must yield before the cross, as it reveals our complete neediness and sinfulness while also showcasing God’s boundless love and mercy.
For Christians, this means that true greatness and honor are not found in power, wealth, or fame but in the willingness to serve others and to give ourselves up. Following Christ means imitating His example of humility by making ourselves small to help others and do God’s will. Humility is thus not just an important trait but the core of what it means to be a Christian.
The events of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the symbolism of riding a donkey have a profound connection to our everyday lives and faith as Christians.
Jesus, entering Jerusalem as a humble king on a donkey, presents a life pattern that remains relevant today. In a world often focused on power, fame, and material success, Jesus’ example calls us to choose a different path—the path of humility, service, and peace. In daily life, this means adopting Jesus’ attitude in our relationships, work, and decisions: not seeking our own honor but serving others and doing God’s will.
The humility Jesus demonstrates reminds us that true greatness is not in our external achievements or recognition but in our inner attitude and obedience to God. This can manifest in small things, like refraining from drawing attention to ourselves or being willing to forgive and show compassion even when it is difficult.
Riding a donkey also shows that God’s ways are often different from worldly expectations. This realization encourages us to trust when God’s plans for our lives do not always align with societal norms or when we are called to venture into unknown territory.
In faith and daily life, this means that we can take pride in what Jesus has done for us—our redemption on the cross. This pride is not directed at ourselves but at the grace and love bestowed upon us through Christ. It encourages us to live in a way that reflects this grace—by serving others in humility, bringing God’s peace to the world, and always remembering that our true identity and worth are anchored in Christ.
In summary, Jesus’ triumphal entry challenges us to examine our own lives and ensure that we are not merely outwardly “fruitful” but also inwardly humble, peaceful, and ready to follow God’s will—just as Jesus demonstrated to us.
True greatness is revealed in humility, serving others, and placing God’s will above our own.
25.08.2024 – Matthew Chapter 26 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
August 25, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 26
1 And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples,
2 Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified.
3 Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas,
4 And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him.
5 But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.
6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,
7 There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.
8 But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste?
9 For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.
10 When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.
11 For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.
12 For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial.
13 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.
14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,
15 And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.
16 And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.
17 Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover?
18 And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples.
19 And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them; and they made ready the passover.
20 Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.
21 And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.
22 And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?
23 And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me.
24 The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.
25 Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.
26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.
27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
29 But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.
30 And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.
31 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
32 But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.
33 Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.
34 Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
35 Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.
36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.
37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
39 And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?
41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
42 He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.
43 And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.
44 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.
45 Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
46 Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.
47 And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people.
48 Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast.
49 And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.
50 And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus and took him.
51 And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest’s, and smote off his ear.
52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.
53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?
55 In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.
56 But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
57 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.
58 But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.
59 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;
60 But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,
61 And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.
62 And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?
63 But Jesus held his peace, And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
65 Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.
66 What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.
67 Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands,
68 Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?
69 Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.
70 But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest.
71 And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.
72 And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man.
73 And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee.
74 Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.
75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction:
The 26th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew is a central part of the Passion narrative and describes the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. It begins with the conspiracy of the chief priests and elders, moves on to the anointing of Jesus in Bethany, Judas Iscariot’s betrayal, the Last Supper, the prediction of Peter’s denial, Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane, his arrest, the interrogations before the Sanhedrin, and concludes with Peter’s denial. These sections are marked by betrayal, loyalty, fear, and divine providence.
Commentary:
In Matthew 26, the complexity of human actions and divine will is depicted in the final hours before Jesus Christ’s crucifixion. The actions of the chief priests and elders, who, fearing an uproar, secretly conspire to have Jesus killed, highlight the deep divide between religious authority and true divine understanding.
The anointing of Jesus by an unnamed woman presents a strong contrast to the scheming of the chief priests. While this woman anticipates Jesus’ death and acts with love and devotion, her actions are initially misunderstood by the disciples, underscoring Jesus’ teachings about true values and priorities in the Kingdom of God.
Judas’ betrayal, delivering Jesus to his enemies for thirty pieces of silver – the price of a slave – reveals the darkness in the heart of one of Jesus’ closest confidants and fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. This betrayal takes on special significance during the Last Supper, where Jesus institutes the new covenant through the sharing of bread and wine, symbols of his forthcoming sacrifice.
Peter’s overconfidence and subsequent triple denial of Jesus represent another human conflict: the struggle between will and the weakness of the flesh. Peter’s fall and his bitter weeping are a poignant testimony of repentance and the need for divine forgiveness.
Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemane, marked by the kiss of the betrayer Judas and the violence of one of his disciples, underscores the contrast between the ways of this world and the path Jesus follows in complete submission to the Father’s will. Jesus’ arrest reveals the ignorance of his opponents, who act with violence while he refrains from using his power to fulfill the Scriptures.
During his trial before the Sanhedrin, Jesus remains silent until asked if he is the Messiah. His response – both a confirmation and a reference to his future glory – leads to his condemnation by the high priest, who accuses him of blasphemy. The violence and mockery he endures continue the theme of the suffering servant present throughout the chapter.
Summary:
Matthew 26 describes the final moments of Jesus before his crucifixion, addressing themes of betrayal, divine providence, and human weakness. It reveals the profound significance of Jesus’ Passion by depicting the conspiracies of religious leaders, Judas’ betrayal, the institution of the Last Supper, Peter’s predicted denial, Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane, his arrest, and the failure of his disciples. These events inevitably lead to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and lay the foundation for the redemption of humanity through Jesus’ sacrifice.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 58—“Lazarus, Come Forth”
This chapter is based on Luke 10:38-42; John 11:1-44.
Read online here
Commentary
The chapter “Lazarus, Come Fourth” describes one of the most powerful and symbolic episodes in the ministry of Jesus. The raising of Lazarus from the dead is not only a remarkable miracle but also a profound testament to Jesus’ divine authority and love for his friends. This chapter uniquely brings together faith, hope, and the nature of divine providence.
Lazarus and the Family in Bethany:
Lazarus, along with his sisters Mary and Martha, are among Jesus’ most devoted followers. The close bond between them and Jesus goes far beyond what one would expect in a mere teacher-student relationship. The house in Bethany, home to Lazarus and his sisters, often serves as a refuge for Jesus, a place of peace and friendship where he can rest from the demands of his public ministry. This deep emotional connection becomes particularly evident when Lazarus falls ill and eventually dies.
Jesus’ Reaction to Lazarus’ Death:
Interestingly, Jesus hesitates to go to Bethany upon hearing of Lazarus’ illness. This delay initially seems puzzling, especially to the disciples who are aware of Jesus’ deep affection for Lazarus and his family. However, Jesus’ delay is intentional and serves a greater purpose: the glorification of God and the strengthening of his disciples’ faith. Jesus knows that the forthcoming miracle, the resurrection of Lazarus, will provide a powerful demonstration of his divine power and his identity as the Messiah.
The Dialogue with Martha and Mary:
When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, he is greeted by Martha, who affirms her faith in him but is still sorrowful over her brother’s death. Jesus uses this moment to strengthen both Martha’s and Mary’s faith by telling them that he himself is “the resurrection and the life.” These words are central, as they not only point to the imminent resurrection of Lazarus but also to the deeper truth that Jesus embodies eternal life itself.
The Raising of Lazarus:
The climax of the chapter is undoubtedly the scene where Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb. This act is so powerful and majestic that it dispels any doubts about Jesus’ divine nature. The miracle is a symbolic act that foreshadows the future resurrection of all believers and demonstrates Jesus’ sovereignty over life and death. The reaction of those present—a mixture of astonishment, joy, and gratitude—highlights the profound emotional and spiritual impact of this miracle.
Significance for Faith:
The raising of Lazarus is not only a physical miracle but also a spiritual sign. It shows that faith in Jesus offers a living hope for eternal life, a hope that extends beyond death. Jesus demonstrates that death does not have the final word, but that through him, life triumphs. For the disciples and all who witness this event, it becomes clear that Jesus is indeed the Son of God, who has come to establish the Kingdom of God on earth.
The Deep Humanity of Jesus:
What is particularly moving is the portrayal of Jesus’ deep compassion. Although he knows that he will raise Lazarus from the dead, he weeps with those who mourn. These tears reveal Jesus’ full humanity and his capacity to experience genuine pain and loss. It presents a picture of Jesus that brings him closer to us: the divine Savior who is fully human, suffering with us and understanding our suffering.
Conclusion:
The chapter “Lazarus, Come Fourth” illustrates that Jesus’ actions and words are always directed toward a deeper, divine purpose—revealing his nature and mission to bring life that transcends death. The resurrection of Lazarus is a precursor to the final resurrection and a powerful symbol of the victory of life over death. It reminds us that in times of suffering and darkness, faith in Christ can lead us to a new life that surpasses our current reality.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/25-08-2024-matthew-chapter-26-believe-his-prophets/
El presidente de Adventist Frontier Mission aboga por una organización paralela para desviar el diezmo
En una reunión de campamento la semana pasada, Conrad Vine, presidente de Adventist Frontier Missions, abogó por el establecimiento de una organización paralela a la iglesia que retenga el diezmo y lo entregue sólo a aquellas organizaciones que se opongan al «marxismo cultural» y defiendan la libertad de conciencia en materia de vacunación y cambio […] Source: https://atoday.org/el-presidente-de-adventist-frontier-mission-aboga-por-una-organizacion-paralela-para-desviar-el-diezmo/
Worship Aug 24, 2024 | A Call to Holiness — Ramon Canals
A Call to Holiness — Ramon Canals
Study: Lesson 8, Teaching Disciples: Part II — Clifton Koilpillai THANK YOU. Media Ministry needs your continued financial support. Please donate by visiting "https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANB4RC/envelope/start" and select “Media Ministries”. Connect With Us
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The Book of Mark – Lesson 9.Jerusalem Controversies | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley
Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley |
Lesson 9.Jerusalem Controversies |
The Final Journey: Jesus’ Revelation and Challenges in Jerusalem |
Lesson 9 focuses on the pivotal events marking the beginning of the final week in Jesus’ life. The triumphal entry into Jerusalem, followed by symbolic acts such as the cursing of the fig tree and the cleansing of the temple, reveals Jesus’ messianic identity and his authority over religious and worldly systems. This lesson also addresses Jesus’ responses to challenging questions from religious leaders, highlighting his wisdom and the central commandment of love for God and neighbor. These events pave the way for the coming suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus, which are the core of the Christian faith.
Memory Text: Mark 11:25 – “ ‘And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.’ ”
Content:
9.1 The Triumphal Entry
Jesus’ Revelation as Messiah
In Mark 11:1–11, we see Jesus deliberately fulfilling the Old Testament prophecy from Zechariah 9:9–10 by entering Jerusalem on a donkey. This act is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a public declaration of his messianic identity. The emphasis on procuring the donkey underscores both the precise fulfillment of the prophecy and Jesus’ prophetic foresight. His entry into Jerusalem marks a significant departure from the secrecy surrounding his mission, as he now openly presents himself as the promised King. The crowd’s reactions show that they recognize the significance of this act, though the ultimate consequence will only become apparent in the coming days.
9.2 A Cursed Tree and a Cleansed Temple
Symbols of Divine Judgment
In Mark 11:12–26, we see a symbolic act by Jesus criticizing the state of the temple and the religious leadership of Israel. The cursed fig tree represents Israel, which, despite outward piety, bears no genuine fruits of righteousness. This fruitlessness is also reflected in the state of the temple, which has become a place of commercial activity rather than worship. Jesus’ cleansing of the temple serves as a clear warning that true worship and righteousness are required. The withered fig and the cleansed temple are directly related: both symbolize the impending judgment on a fruitless religious system.
9.3 Who Said You Could Do That?
The Challenge to Authority: Jesus’ Wise Response to the Religious Leaders
In Mark 11:27–33, the religious leaders challenge Jesus’ authority by asking him who gave him the power to cleanse the temple. They hope to trap him, but Jesus sees through their intent and responds with a counter-question about John’s baptism. This puts the leaders in a dilemma, as they cannot answer without compromising themselves. Jesus uses their inability to respond to avoid revealing his authority directly. This event shows how Jesus wisely responds to the scheming of his opponents while subtly indicating his divine authority.
9.4 Earthly Duties and Heavenly Outcomes
Taxes and Resurrection: Jesus’ Wisdom in the Face of Worldly and Spiritual Challenges
In Mark 12:13–27, the religious leaders attempt to trap Jesus with questions about tax obligations and resurrection. First, they ask about paying taxes to Rome, hoping to portray him as either a rebel or a traitor. However, Jesus wisely responds that one should give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s. This answer teaches believers to fulfill their earthly responsibilities without neglecting their higher obligation to God. Later, the Sadducees pose a hypothetical question about the resurrection to discredit this teaching. Jesus corrects them by explaining that there is no earthly marriage in the resurrection and that God is a God of the living, affirming the hope of eternal life.
9.5 The Greatest Commandment
The Greatest Commandment: Love for God and Neighbor as the Core of Faith
In Mark 12:28–34, a well-meaning scribe asks Jesus about the greatest commandment. Jesus answers by quoting the Shema: the command to love God with all one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength. This highlights the comprehensive devotion to God. Jesus then adds that the second greatest commandment is to love one’s neighbor as oneself. This dual answer emphasizes the inseparable connection between love for God and love for others. The scribe acknowledges the wisdom in Jesus’ response, prompting Jesus to tell him that he is not far from the Kingdom of God.
9.6 Summary
The Triumphal Entry: Jesus’ Public Revelation as Messiah
Lesson 9 covers Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, as described in Mark 11:1–11. Jesus consciously fulfills the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9 by entering the city on a donkey, emphasizing his messianic identity. The crowd recognizes the significance of this event and welcomes Jesus with “Hosanna” shouts, acknowledging him as the promised King. Through this act, Jesus publicly declares his mission and marks the beginning of the events leading to his suffering and death. The entry is a symbolic act that clarifies the expectations for the Messiah and the forthcoming fulfillment of divine promises.
Sunday: The Triumphal Entry
Daily Lesson for Sunday 25th of August 2024
Read Mark 11:1-11 and Zechariah 9:9-10. What’s happening here?
Half of this story involves Jesus sending two disciples to a nearby village to retrieve a donkey for Him to ride on into Jerusalem. Why is so much time spent on this account?
The answer is twofold. First, it demonstrates Jesus’ prophetic powers, enhancing the dignity of His arrival and linking it to the will of God. Second, this aspect of the story links to Zechariah 9:9-10, which speaks of the king as riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. It is reminiscent of the entry of Solomon into Jerusalem on a donkey (1 Kings 1:32-48), when Adonijah tried to usurp the throne, and David commanded that Solomon be immediately crowned.
“Five hundred years before the birth of Christ, the prophet Zechariah thus foretold the coming of the King to Israel. This prophecy is now to be fulfilled. He who has so long refused royal honors now comes to Jerusalem as the promised heir to David’s throne.”—Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, p. 569.
Jerusalem is located in a hilly region at an elevation of about 2,400 feet (about 740 meters). In Jesus’ day its population was perhaps 40,000–50,000, but this swelled at Passover. The city covered only about 250 acres, but the temple mount covered about 37 of those acres. The beautiful temple complex dominated the city.
Jesus entered from the east, descending the Mount of Olives and likely entering through the Golden Gate onto the Temple Mount (a gate now bricked shut). The entire city was stirred by His entry, everyone recognizing the significance of His symbolic action. The crowd that accompanied Jesus shouted “hosanna,” a term originally meaning “save now” but eventually coming to mean “praise to God.”
The time for secrecy, which Jesus had insisted throughout most of Mark, has passed. Now Jesus openly enters Jerusalem using a well-known royal symbolic action. He enters the temple, but because it is late in the day, He simply looks around and then retires with the twelve disciples to Bethany. What could have turned into a riot or revolt instead ends with Him quietly retiring. But the next day will be different.
The idea of riding on the donkey invokes the idea of humility. Why is that such an important trait, especially for Christians? What have we, in light of the Cross, to be proud about? |
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Audrey & Wisam’s Work: Teaching in Nazareth
This video follows Audrey & Wisam, who transform their community in Nazareth through education, teaching unusual subjects in Muslim schools and conducting Bible studies. Leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
#AudreyAndWisamJourney #EducationInNazareth #InfluenceThroughTeaching #awr #adventistworldradio #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJDb3XFMDR8
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