April 9, 2017
Prophets of the Cross: Zechariah 9
On Palm Sunday, we celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Intentionally fulfilling the Messianic prophecy of Zechariah 9, Jesus directed his disciples to bring him a donkey, which he rode into the city to great celebration by the people. The crowds cried out “Hosanna,” which is a joyful declaration of praise meaning, “Save!” By fulfilling this prophecy from Zechariah 9, Jesus was making an important statement about what kind of Messiah he was.
First, Jesus was saying, “I am righteous.” This means that Jesus is perfect in the sight of God. He has never sinned. It also means that he is a just judge. He cannot be bribed or corrupted. He will always judge with honesty and integrity.
Second, Jesus was saying, “I am victorious.” Even though Jesus’ great victory was still a week away (Hint: Easter), he was declaring his victory over sin and death in advance. He knew what awaited him, but he also knew the power of God that would raise him from the dead.
Third, Jesus was saying, “I am humble.” We might expect a triumphant king to be riding a warhorse or in a chariot, but that’s not the kind of Messiah Jesus was going to be. Instead, he rode a humble beast of burden, a simple donkey.