As Jesus approached Jerusalem, 'when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples' (Ὅτε ἐγγίζουσιν εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα εἰς Βηθφαγὴ καὶ Βηθανίαν πρὸς τὸ Ὄρος τῶν Ἐλαιῶν, ἀποστέλλει δύο τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ). This geographical note marks the beginning of Jesus' passion week. Bethphage and Bethany were villages near Jerusalem on the Mount of Olives' eastern slope. Jesus' approach fulfilled Zechariah 14:4, which prophesied the Messiah would stand on the Mount of Olives. Sending disciples for the colt (vv. 2-6) demonstrates Jesus' foreknowledge and sovereign orchestration of prophetic fulfillment. Everything leading to the cross happened according to divine plan, not random circumstance.
Historical Context
The Mount of Olives overlooks Jerusalem from the east, separated by the Kidron Valley. Bethany (meaning 'house of affliction' or 'house of dates') was home to Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (John 11:1), where Jesus stayed during passion week. Bethphage (meaning 'house of unripe figs') was closer to Jerusalem. The Mount of Olives held eschatological significance—Zechariah 14:4 prophesied God would stand there when delivering Jerusalem. Pilgrims approaching Jerusalem for Passover from the east would descend the Mount of Olives, cross Kidron, and enter the city. Jesus deliberately timed His entry for maximum visibility during Passover, when Jerusalem's population swelled from 50,000 to over 200,000 with pilgrims. This set the stage for His triumphal entry (Mark 11:7-11).
Questions for Reflection
How does Jesus' deliberate approach to Jerusalem via the Mount of Olives fulfill Old Testament prophecy and demonstrate sovereign control over His passion?
What does the geographical setting teach about Jesus consciously orchestrating events rather than being victim of circumstances?
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Analysis & Commentary
As Jesus approached Jerusalem, 'when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples' (Ὅτε ἐγγίζουσιν εἰς Ἱεροσόλυμα εἰς Βηθφαγὴ καὶ Βηθανίαν πρὸς τὸ Ὄρος τῶν Ἐλαιῶν, ἀποστέλλει δύο τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ). This geographical note marks the beginning of Jesus' passion week. Bethphage and Bethany were villages near Jerusalem on the Mount of Olives' eastern slope. Jesus' approach fulfilled Zechariah 14:4, which prophesied the Messiah would stand on the Mount of Olives. Sending disciples for the colt (vv. 2-6) demonstrates Jesus' foreknowledge and sovereign orchestration of prophetic fulfillment. Everything leading to the cross happened according to divine plan, not random circumstance.