Year of the Bible: Part Nine of TwelveSample

The Most Famous Entrance to a City Ever!

These two accounts of the most famous city entrance have similarities and differences. Matthew and Mark had different audiences in mind when writing their Gospel accounts: Matthew wrote to the Jews, and Mark wrote to Jews and Gentiles. When you encounter differences in the Gospel accounts, pay attention to the intended audience.

Because Matthew's account is for a Jewish audience, he often includes quotes from the Old Testament that the other Gospel writers leave out. Quoting Zechariah 9:9, Matthew writes: "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." Wait, this King is coming on a donkey, not a victorious war horse. This King is lowly and meek—just who is He?

We must all answer that million-dollar question: "Who is Jesus?" Jesus is both the Son of God and the Son of Man. Jesus is both King of all Kings and servant of all servants. Jesus rode into the city of Jerusalem to set up a Kingdom that would last for all eternity.

Whom do you say Jesus is? Is He your friend? Yes, and much more. Is Jesus your Savior? Yes, and yet more than a Savior. Jesus is your Lord, Priest, and King.

Question: Who is Jesus to you? How is He different from the Jesus you thought you knew—from the Jesus you first knew? Spend time meditating on these questions today; journal your answer and use it to bless those you love.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, open my heart and understanding and answer the question for me: who is Jesus?