Mark 11
The triumphal entry and Jesus’ anger at the Temple. His authority is questioned
Discussion Question
- In verse 11, was Jesus preparing himself for what was to follow?
Share your thoughts below, or tweet about it with the #boundlessbible hashtag. Don't forget this week's Children's Challenge!
Going Deeper – from 'Words of Life'
The declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen is a fundamental document of the French Revolution and in the history of human rights.
Each French child learns to say, ‘J’ai le droit!’ (‘I have the right’) – which is fine until someone bigger enters his or her life and says, ‘I have the right over you!’
Jesus enters Jerusalem on a lowly animal, an unridden colt (symbolising purity). If any questions were asked as to why the disciples were untying the colt, they were to reply: ‘The Lord needs it.’ Jesus specialises in using the ordinary means placed at his disposal. He enters the great city at a level close to the cheering crowd. He cleanses the Temple, which signals a direct confrontation with the religious powers of the day: ‘Is it not written: “My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations”?’ (v 17) The place of prayer has been taken over for commercial use.
These are the things now questioned by the religious powers that be: ‘Show us your credentials! Who authorized you to speak and act like this?’ (v 28 The Message). Jesus is treading on their patch. He is getting too close for comfort and they do not like it. They had not responded to his question and he refuses to answer theirs – the dialogue is blocked.
Today, let us allow him to take his place as Lord in our lives.
Beverly Ivany
Video produced by Gary Rose
Ponder
Who has the right to rule my life?
Who has the right to reign?
Who has the right to take my heart
And make it new again?
Christ has the right, the right of love,
Love which demands the whole.
Dear Lord, I give without reserve
My heart, my life, my soul.
Janet Arter, from her song 'Divine Right'
Tags: Mark