Chapter 29 - On to Jerusalem

Chapter 29: On to Jerusalem

Foretelling of Death and Resurrection

Gospel References - Matthew 20:17-19 - Mark 10:32-34 - Luke 18:31-34
Significance of the Journey to Jerusalem - Each Synoptic Gospel records Jesus' last journey and the events surrounding it. - Jesus was greatly affected by the impending fate of his mission, resulting in his evident sadness which amazed the apostles. - The apostles fell behind in amazement and fear, leading Jesus to call them together.
Jesus’ Forewarnings: - In clear language, without metaphors, Jesus proclaims they are going to Jerusalem where prophesied events will unfold: - He will be delivered to the Gentiles. - He will be mocked, mistreated, and subjected to ridicule (spitted on) and eventually scourged and killed. - Important to note: "And the third day he shall rise again." - Apostles’ Comprehension: - Despite Jesus' clarity, the twelve did not understand his meaning as confirmed by Luke: "They understood none of these things; this saying was hid from them."
Previous Predictions of Death - First prediction: Shortly before the Transfiguration (Matt. 16:21; Mark 8:31). - Second prediction: After their return from Galilee (Matt. 17:22-23; Mark 9:31; Luke 9:44). - They could not reconcile Jesus as the Messiah with the idea of him being killed.

Question of Precedence and Ambitious Request

Apostles’ Misunderstanding - Despite prior teachings on humility and service, the disciples still courted positions of rank in the coming kingdom, led by James and John (or their mother) requesting prestigious appointments. - Jesus poses a question regarding their ability to share in his future sufferings, indicating they would indeed share in that cup (his suffering) but not be appointed to the seats they wished.
Response to Indignation - The other ten apostles were indignant, not just at the request, but at being outdone. - Jesus teaches them that true greatness is found in servitude, contrasting it with worldly leaders who lord over others. - He emphasizes his own role as one who came to serve and to give his life as a ransom.

Restoration of Sight Near Jericho

Miracle of Healing the Blind - Gospel References:
- Matthew (20:30-34): Two blind men healed as Jesus leaves Jericho. - Mark (10:46-52): Focus on Bartimaeus, who calls for mercy. - Luke (18:35-43): Details a blind man healed as Jesus approaches. - Common Themes: Independent accounts with slight variations reflective of each writer's style without impacting the core event.
Bartimaeus' Faith - Bartimaeus, aware Jesus was passing by, calls out for mercy using the title "Son of David," indicating his Messianic understanding. - He is rebuked by the crowd but persists, leading to his encounter with Jesus.
Jesus’ Direct Interaction - Jesus stops and commands Bartimaeus be brought to him. - Bartimaeus expresses his desire for sight, and Jesus responds affirmatively acknowledging his faith as the source of his healing. - Bartimaeus follows Jesus, glorifying God alongside the crowd.

Zacchaeus the Chief Publican

Introduction to Zacchaeus - Jericho is described as a significant city with a notable publican, Zacchaeus, who seeks to see Jesus among the crowds. - Due to his stature (shortness), Zacchaeus climbs a sycamore tree to see Jesus as he passes.
Jesus’ Invitation - Jesus sees Zacchaeus and instructs him to come down for a visit, resulting in public murmuring since Zacchaeus is deemed a sinner. - Zacchaeus expresses repentance, pledging restitution, reflecting transformation and fulfillment of Mosaic law on restitution.
Jesus’ Affirmation of Salvation - Jesus acknowledges Zacchaeus' repentance and signifies his acceptance, emphasizing the theme of salvation reaching the lost, affirming Zacchaeus as a son of Abraham.

The Parable of the Pounds

Context and Setting - As Jesus approaches Jerusalem, he addresses common misconceptions surrounding the immediate establishment of God’s kingdom. - Parable Details:
- A nobleman goes to a far country to receive a kingdom, leaving servants with pounds (money) to invest in his absence. - Upon return, he assesses their performance in trade/management.
Key Lessons from the Parable - Those who successfully invest their pounds are rewarded, while the one who hid his pound suffers loss. - The closing admonition regarding the deservingness based on use of entrusted resources emphasizes accountability for abilities and opportunities given. - Echoes of rejection from citizens reflect the real historical context.

Anointing at Bethany

Arrival in Bethany - Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrives in Bethany where he dines at Simon the leper’s house. - Notably, this event follows closely the triumphal entry.
Mary’s Anointing - Mary anoints Jesus with expensive spikenard ointment, showcasing profound reverence. - Her act is met with criticism from Judas Iscariot, faking concern for the poor, which reveals his true character. - Jesus defends Mary, stating her act honors his impending burial.

Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem

Order of Events - Jesus instructs his disciples to fetch a donkey and her foal for his entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecy (Zechariah 9:9).
Public Reaction - Crowds celebrate by laying garments and branches in his path, shouting praises reflective of messianic honors. - Jesus weeps over Jerusalem's future destruction, symbolizing complex emotions amidst their acclaim.
Pharisees’ Complaints - Some Pharisees request Jesus to silence the crowd, to which he responds that even the stones would cry out.

Teaching and Interaction with Greeks

Greeks Seeking Jesus - Some Gentile proselytes seek an audience with Jesus, demonstrating the expansion of his influence beyond the Jewish people. - Upon their request through the apostles, Jesus teaches them about the necessity of his impending death and its significance.
Analogies Used by Jesus - He refers to a grain of wheat needing to die to produce fruit, illustrating the necessity of sacrifice for greater glory. - This theme is intertwined with the understanding of eternal life and glorified existence beyond mere temporal concerns.

Voice from Heaven

Prayer and Assurance - Contemplating his upcoming sacrifice, Jesus expresses the turmoil within his heart but affirms his commitment to glorify the Father. - The reply from heaven acknowledges Jesus' divine purpose and reassures him of glory.
Disciples' Confusion - The audience misinterprets the divine voice, showcasing the varied levels of understanding among the people. - Jesus instructs them to live in the light of truth while they still can, emphasizing the urgency of belief.

Closing of Chapter 29

Summary: The events leading to Jerusalem outline the unfolding of Jesus' passion, reflect on the necessities of servitude and sacrifice, and serve as both prophecy and fulfillment within the diverse responses to Jesus in his final days leading to crucifixion.

Notes

Note 1: James and John

The mother of these disciples is believed to have been Salome, associated with significant events in Jesus’ life.

Note 2: Jericho

An ancient city significant for its wealth and proximity to Jerusalem.

Note 3: Historical Parallel of the Nobleman

Relates to real historical figures like Archelaus who sought kingly confirmation amid citizen dissent.

Note 4: Rejection of Kingship

Reflects historical rejection from the Jewish leaders, as previously noted in their cries for Caesar's kingship.

Note 5: Timeline of Events

John’s chronology in the last week provides a sequence that various synoptics interpret differently.

Note 6: Relationship of Bethany Home

Uncertainty remains about the familial relations in the house of Simon the leper versus the home of Lazarus and his sisters.

Note 7: Spikenard Ointment

A highly valued ointment, indicating the sacrificial nature of Mary's gesture towards Jesus.

Note 8: Hosanna Meaning

Hebrew expression for “save us now,” used during the triumphant entry.

Note 9: Sequence of Events in Passion Week

The sequence of events post-royal entry presents interpretative challenges across synoptics.