GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW
Jesus enters Jerusalem and the Temple: Mt 21,1-17
We are reading as one passage Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem (21,1) and his entrance into the Temple (21,12). Only Matthew brings the two entrances together; Luke makes little of the entrance into the Temple (Lk 21,45-46). We can note the exclamation which appears in both scenes (21,9.15).
Jesus enters Jerusalem: 21,1-11
A comparison with Mark, Mk 11,1-10, will show that Matthew has made two additions but one omission. Think about why Matthew has made these changes.
The Mount of Olives has a special significance in this context: see Zechariah 14,4 and also 24,3
The animals also recall Zechariah, Zech 9,9. How is Matthew different in verse 2 to Mk 11,2?
The fulfillment expression in verse 4 is common in this Gospel, we have seen it a number of times, especially in the first two chapters. The first part of the quotation is from Isaiah 62,11, the second part from Zechariah 9,9. Consider how quoting Zechariah provides an interpretation of this scene. How has Matthew misunderstood Zechariah (as will become evident in verse 7)?
You will have noticed at verse 6 when comparing with Mark how Matthew has here omitted two verses.
Note how Jesus has to sit awkwardly in verse 7. What is the significance of Jesus riding and not walking into the city?
For verse 8 and the cutting of branches, look at Levitcus 23,39-40.
The crowd's acclamation comes from Ps 118,25-26. What is the importance of "Son of David" here (2 Sam 5,7)?
The response in verse 10 and 11 brings to mind Dt 18,18. Look back as well to 2,7.
Now, a response from me
Jesus enters the Temple, 21,12-17
What is significant for Jesus in this Gospel about this entry into the Temple? See Malachi 3,1.
For Jesus' actions in verse 12, look at Zechariah 14,21. For the doves, see Leviticus 5,7.11. See also 22,20-21.
How is Jesus' role is different here to his role when entering Jerusalem. Have a look at Jeremiah 7, especially Jer 7,11.
In verse 14, it was not normal to see the disabled in the Temple, see 2 Sam 5,8. See also Is 35,5-6 and consider this in light of 11,4-6.
For verse 15, look back at 2,4-6. Note the special role of the son of David as a healer in this Gospel (9,27 for example).
Consider who do these people represent in contrast to those of the previous verse.
We have already seen the use of Psalm 118 in verse 9.
For Jesus' reply, see Psalm 8,2.
Consider how verse 17 might be an anticipation of 24,1.
Now, a response from me
Now we continue with the withering of the fig tree and the lesson arising from it, Mt 21,18-32.