Matthew 21:10 WEB

"When he had come into Jerusalem, all the city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?”"

What Does Matthew 21:10 Mean?

In Matthew 21:10, the verse states, "When he had come into Jerusalem, all the city was stirred up, saying, 'Who is this?'" This moment captures the excitement and curiosity that surrounded Jesus as he entered Jerusalem, marking a significant event in the lead-up to his crucifixion. The act of entering the city is symbolic, representing not just a physical journey, but also the spiritual implications of Jesus being recognized as the Messiah. The stir among the people indicates that Jesus was already a well-known figure, stirring both hope and apprehension among the crowds.

The phrase 'all the city was stirred up' suggests a collective response among the people of Jerusalem. This was not a small, quiet gathering; it was a moment that made waves throughout the city. The question, 'Who is this?' speaks to the uncertainty and intrigue surrounding Jesus. For some, he was a miracle worker and teacher; for others, he was a threat to the established order. This verse highlights the diverse opinions and perceptions about Jesus, setting the stage for the events that would follow during Holy Week.

Contextually, this verse falls within the narrative of Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem, which is a pivotal moment in Matthew's Gospel. The surrounding chapters build up to this moment, showing Jesus's ministry, teachings, and miracles. The chapter is part of a larger narrative arc that illustrates Jesus's mission and his eventual sacrifice. This moment not only signifies the fulfillment of prophecy but also serves as a prelude to the intensifying conflict that will culminate in his crucifixion.

Many may misconceive this stirring as mere excitement, but it is essential to understand the deeper theological implications of this event. Jesus's entry into Jerusalem was a fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9, which prophesied the coming of a humble king. The question 'Who is this?' can also be seen as a challenge to the reader: who do we believe Jesus is? This verse invites us to explore our own understanding of Jesus's identity and the implications that come with it.

Practical Application

Matthew 21:10 reminds us of the importance of recognizing Jesus in our lives. Just as the city of Jerusalem was stirred at his arrival, we too should be stirred by the presence of Christ in our daily lives. This verse challenges us to ask ourselves who Jesus is to us personally. Are we merely spectators in our faith, or are we actively engaging with the question of Christ’s identity and significance in our lives? Understanding who Jesus is can change the way we interact with the world and respond to challenges.

Consider situations where you might feel overwhelmed or uncertain, similar to the people of Jerusalem. For example, during times of personal crisis or decision-making, reflecting on the question 'Who is this?' can lead us to seek Jesus's guidance. Engaging with the question of who Jesus is can help us ground ourselves and find peace in chaos. Additionally, when we encounter individuals who are curious or confused about faith, we can invite them to explore this question too, creating a safe space for dialogue and exploration.

To live out the teaching of Matthew 21:10, we can take actionable steps such as setting aside time for prayer and reflection on Jesus's identity. This could involve reading the Gospels, participating in a Bible study, or discussing faith with friends and family. Journaling your thoughts on who Jesus is to you can also foster deeper understanding. Share your insights in conversations, allowing others to join you in exploring this fundamental question.

Finally, here are a few personal reflection questions: What does Jesus mean to you in your everyday life? How do you respond when others ask about your faith? In what ways can you be more open to recognizing Christ's presence in your life and in the lives of others? These questions can guide your spiritual journey and help you grow in your relationship with Jesus.

Historical Context

Matthew 21:10 is situated during the climax of Jesus's ministry, specifically during the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This event occurs just before the Passion narrative, leading up to Jesus's crucifixion. The chapter builds on the themes of prophecy fulfillment and the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah, marking a pivotal moment in the Gospel of Matthew. The excitement and inquiry from the crowd indicate the varying perceptions of Jesus, setting the stage for the conflict that will follow. Matthew's Gospel emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, particularly regarding Jesus's role as the Messiah. The triumphal entry is rich with symbolism, showcasing Jesus's kingship while also foreshadowing the suffering he will endure, thus encapsulating the essence of his mission on Earth.

Historical Background

Matthew, traditionally attributed to the Apostle Matthew, was written in the first century AD, likely between 70-90 AD. It was intended for a primarily Jewish audience, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. This context is crucial for understanding the significance of events like the triumphal entry, as it highlights Jesus's identity as the promised Messiah within the Jewish tradition.

Reflection Questions

Common Questions

What does 'stirred up' mean in this context?

'Stirred up' refers to a strong emotional reaction among the people of Jerusalem. This phrase indicates that the arrival of Jesus created a sense of excitement, curiosity, and even anxiety. The stirring signifies that the people were actively engaged and questioning the implications of Jesus's presence, reflecting their varied responses to him.

Why did the people ask, 'Who is this?'?

The question 'Who is this?' reflects the uncertainty and intrigue surrounding Jesus's identity. Some knew of his miracles and teachings, while others were unaware of his significance. This inquiry highlights the diverse opinions about Jesus and invites deeper reflection on his role as the Messiah and what it means for individuals and the community.

What is the significance of Jesus entering Jerusalem?

Jesus's entry into Jerusalem signifies the culmination of his earthly ministry and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, particularly Zechariah 9:9. This event marks the beginning of the final week of his life, leading to his crucifixion and resurrection. It demonstrates his role as the Messiah, challenging the expectations of the people and showcasing his kingship in a humble manner.

How does this verse relate to the overall message of Matthew's Gospel?

Matthew 21:10 is pivotal in establishing Jesus's identity as the Messiah. The verse comes during a critical moment in the narrative, setting the stage for the events of Holy Week. Throughout Matthew's Gospel, the themes of prophecy fulfillment, Jesus's authority, and the nature of true discipleship are central, making this verse a key moment in understanding the larger message of the book.

What can we learn from the crowd's reaction?

The crowd's reaction serves as a mirror for our own responses to Jesus. Their excitement, curiosity, and questions remind us that engaging with Jesus's identity is essential. It challenges us to reflect on how we view Jesus in our lives and encourages us to be open to the ways he stirs our hearts and minds, prompting us to seek deeper understanding.

Memory Tips

To remember Matthew 21:10, focus on key phrases like 'all the city was stirred up' and 'Who is this?' You might visualize the bustling streets of Jerusalem filled with people asking questions, creating a vivid mental image that can help you recall the verse.

Incorporate this verse into your daily devotions by reading it aloud and reflecting on its meaning. Consider journaling your thoughts about who Jesus is to you personally. You can also create a simple mnemonic device, like associating the 'stirring' of the city with moments in your life when you felt stirred by faith or curiosity about Jesus.

Another idea is to memorize the verse in small chunks. Start with 'When he had come into Jerusalem,' then add 'all the city was stirred up,' and finally finish with 'saying, 'Who is this?'' This step-by-step approach can make the memorization process more manageable and effective.