Triumphal entry - Ulufale manumalo

Scripture Focus: Luka 19:28-48

Having said these things, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he drew near to Bethsphage and Bethany, at the mountain that is called Olivet, he sent two of his disciples, saying, “Go your way into the village on the other side, in which, as you enter, you will find a colt tied, whereon no man ever yet sat. Untie it, and bring it. If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ say to him: ‘The Lord needs it.’” Those who were sent went away, and found things just as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?” They said, “The Lord needs it.” They brought it to Jesus. They threw their cloaks on the colt, and set Jesus on them. As he went, they spread their cloaks on the road. As he was now getting near, at the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works which they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest!” Some of the Pharisees from the multitude said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!” He answered them, “I tell you that if these were silent, the stones would cry out.” When he drew near, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If you, even you, had known today the things which belong to your peace! But now, they are hidden from your eyes. For the days will come on you, when your enemies will throw up a barricade against you, surround you, hem you in on every side, and will dash you and your children within you to the ground. They will not leave in you one stone on another, because you didn’t know the time of your visitation.” He entered into the temple, and began to drive out those who bought and sold in it, saying to them, “It is written, ‘My house is a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of robbers’!” He was teaching daily in the temple, but the chief priests and the scribes and the leading men among the people sought to destroy him. They couldn’t find what they might do, for all the people hung on to every word that he said.
- Luke 19:28-48 (WEB)

Study:

The passage in Luke 19:28-48 presents the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, a pivotal moment that heralds the climax of His earthly ministry. Jesus approaches the city with deliberate purpose, sending disciples to obtain a colt, fulfilling prophecy and emphasizing His role as the Messiah and King. The crowd’s joyful praises and the spreading of cloaks on the road signify their recognition of His authority and a hope for deliverance. Yet Jesus also weeps over Jerusalem, foreseeing the city’s coming destruction because of its failure to recognize God's visitation and true peace. Finally, Jesus purifies the temple, condemning the corruption within what was meant to be a house of prayer. This highlights the tension between Jesus’ mission of salvation and the resistance from religious leaders. This study reveals Jesus both as the humble King fulfilling God’s promises and the one who calls for repentance and restoration.

Application:

Today, the triumphant entry reminds us to recognize Jesus as King in our own lives, welcoming Him with faith and praise. Like the crowd, we are invited to lay down our own burdens as they laid their cloaks. However, Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem challenges us to examine our hearts: are we open to the peace He offers, or do we resist His presence like the city’s leaders? The cleansing of the temple calls believers to keep the worship of God pure and sincere, avoiding distractions or compromises that hinder genuine relationship with Him. As we seek God’s good gifts, may we respond with joy and reverence, allowing Jesus to reign over every area of our lives.

Reflection Questions:

• How do I welcome Jesus into my daily life as the King?
• In what ways might I be resisting God’s peace or visitation?
• Are there areas in my heart or life that need cleansing or restoration?
• How can I actively honor God with sincere worship and devotion?
• What does it mean for me to seek God’s good gifts today?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You are the humble King who comes in Your Father’s name. Help me to welcome You with open heart and praise. Cleanse my life from anything that hinders true worship. Teach me to recognize Your peace and respond in obedience. May Your reign transform me every day. Amen.

Tags: triumphant entry, Jesus Christ, Gospel of Luke, Palm Sunday, worship, repentance, peace, Messiah, temple cleansing, faith, Christian living, Bible study