Read something that I thought was interesting regarding the triumphal entry in Luke 19.
When the Israelites shouted “Hosanna” and were waiving palm leaves, this was a nationalistic pride demonstration. Like saying GO U.S.A. Basically long live Israel down with Rome. Jesus come and rescue us. Liberate this country. Solve all our problems, etc… Destroy the Romans and give us peace. Definitely something that would stir up the Romans.
During the high holidays there were always those who got excited in the large numbers of Jews congregating and who wanted to overflow the occupying force. There had been revolts before and the Romans were on high alert.
When the Pharisees hear this nationalistic zeal they are concerned. These kind of demonstrations can unleash a Roman hornet’s nest.
Luke 19:38-42
38shouting:
"BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD;
Peace in heaven and (C)glory in the highest!"
39Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, rebuke Your disciples."
40But Jesus answered, "I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!"
The Pharisees wanted to keep the peace. In the next verses Jesus tells us the walls are coming down. Peace is over. The curtain is torn in two. The sacrificial system has been completed. Jewish life and tradition is over. Matthew 10:34 Don't imagine that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword!
Sometimes I try to keep the peace and the status quo, when destruction, refining and healing are the order of the day. He is either God or He’s not. Either I am supposed to do what I am to do or not. If I trust Him, I don’t have to live in anxiety trying to deceptively, anxiously hold it together. Eph 4:15 Speak the truth in love… Phil 4:4-9 do not be anxious…… Matt 28:19-20 …go into all the world making disciples… (not just when it’s comfortable) Luke 14 …unless you hate your mother and brothers…John 15 if the world hated me, it will hate you. These chapters are full of conflict.
I pray that you find joy and peace in your enjoyment of Him this week and that you are more bold.
Philippians 1:14
Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.
Greg
