What did Jesus Ride into Jerusalem on? What does it show about Jesus

Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9. This act demonstrates Jesus’ humility and willingness to fulfill Old Testament prophecies, portraying him as the prophesied Messiah. It also signifies his kingship, but in a humble manner, indicating that he has come not to conquer in the worldly sense but to defeat sin, Satan, and death.

What made Jesus so angry when He came into the temple? What did He do?

Jesus was angered by the exploitation and commercialization of the temple by the Jewish leaders. They were taking advantage of the people by charging exorbitant prices for sacrifices and offerings, enriching themselves at the expense of true worship. In response, Jesus made a whip of cords, overturned the tables of the moneychangers, and drove out those who were turning the temple into a marketplace, declaring it a den of robbers.

How was the fig tree a symbol of Israel? What was Jesus saying when He cursed the fig tree?

The fig tree symbolized Israel’s spiritual fruitfulness (and the Temple’s). Jesus encountered a fig tree that appeared to be fruitful with its lush leaves, but upon closer inspection, it had no fruit. Similarly, Israel, represented by the fig tree (as well as the Temple), appeared religiously devout on the surface but lacked genuine spiritual fruitfulness. Jesus cursed the fig tree as a symbolic act of judgment upon Israel (and the Temple) for its spiritual barrenness and hypocrisy. It also showed that Jesus alone had the authority to judge the nation and the temple and that He had come to cleanse both.

How do each of the three main events show Jesus’ authority?

• Triumphal entry: Jesus rode into Jerusalem as a king, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating his authority as the promised Messiah.
• Cleansing of the temple: Jesus asserted his authority over the religious institutions by cleansing the temple and restoring its true purpose as a house of prayer, showing his authority over matters of worship and devotion.
• Cursing of the fig tree: By cursing the fig tree, Jesus displayed his authority to bring judgment upon Israel for its spiritual hypocrisy and lack of genuine faith.

Knowing Jesus is the rightful King to cleanse and judge His people, how should we respond to Jesus’ authority? (Read 1 Corinthians 6:19)

In 1 Corinthians 6:19, Paul reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within us. Therefore, we should honor God with our bodies and submit to Jesus’ authority over our lives. Responding to Jesus’ authority involves acknowledging him as Lord, following his teachings, and allowing him to transform our lives by the power of the Holy Spirit.