Matthew 21:1–11 describes the event of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This momentous occasion marked Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a significant event in biblical history.
The King came—not on a war horse, but on a donkey.
In Matthew 21:1–11, Jesus rides into Jerusalem to fulfill prophecy, stir hearts, and show what kind of King He truly is. Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem is both loud and humble, yet prophetic.
Matthew 21:1–11 (NASB 2020)
1 When they had approached Jerusalem and had come to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus then sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied there and a colt with it; untie them and bring them to Me. 3 And if anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will send them on immediately.” 4 Now this took place so that what was spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled: 5 “Say to the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold your King is coming to you, Humble, and mounted on a donkey, Even on a colt, the foal of a pack animal.'” 6 The disciples went and did just as Jesus had instructed them, 7 and brought the donkey and the colt, and laid their cloaks on them; and He sat on the cloaks. 8 Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them on the road. 9 Now the crowds going ahead of Him, and those who followed, were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David; Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest!” 10 When He had entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, “Who is this?” 11 And the crowds were saying, “This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- His disciples, whom He gave instructions to
- The crowds shouting Hosanna
- The entire city of Jerusalem stirred and questioned
- Us today, when we must choose if we will crown Him King of our hearts
What Happened?
- Jesus nears Jerusalem and sends disciples to retrieve a donkey and colt
- He enters the city riding humbly on the donkey
- The people lay down cloaks and palm branches, crying out in praise
- The entire town is stirred, asking, “Who is this?” This reflects Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem as a pivotal moment.
The Mood: Celebratory, Prophetic, Stirred
- The crowd is excited and loud
- Jesus is focused and deliberate
- The city is stirred and uncertain
The Principle: Humility Is the Mark of True Kingship
- Jesus enters not in power, but in peace
- He fulfills Zechariah 9:9, showing God’s promises are true and illustrated through His triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
- He redefines leadership: servant before status
- True greatness enters quietly but changes everything
🤝 Audience Response (Then)
- The crowds celebrated Jesus as the “Son of David”
- The disciples obeyed His every word
- The city was stirred—but uncertain, asking, “Who is this?”
🗓️ What This Means for Us in 2025
- Jesus still enters hearts where He is welcomed with praise just as He did during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
- The world still asks, “Who is this?“
- We must decide: Will we receive Him as King or question His authority?
Action Steps for Today
- Invite Jesus in. Make Him King of your heart, not just a guest.
- Lay down your cloak. Surrender your pride and comfort.
- Praise loudly. Let your faith be seen and heard.
- Obey His instructions. Even when they seem unusual.
- Be the voice that answers the world’s questions about Jesus.
Final Prayer
King Jesus, thank You for showing us that humility changes everything. Help me lay down my pride and welcome You with joy. Let my life shout Hosanna, even when others doubt. Rule and reign in every part of my heart. Amen.
He didn’t come with armies. He came with peace. And He still comes today to reign in your heart. Will you let Him?
