Christ Entering Jerusalem
J. R. Danford. Mark 1:1-11 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;… What is the meaning of the day? What was the purpose of the demonstration? The suggestions that Jesus lost control of either Himself or of the people, so as to be carried away by their enthusiasm, are unworthy of His former history and of His subsequent teachings. I. THE DAY IS MEMORABLE FOR ITS SURPRISES AND REVERSALS OF JUDGMENT. Jesus only judged rightly; next to Him the children in the temple. The hopes and visions of the people and disciples were wide of the mark and doomed to disappointment. This day to them promised a throne, but hastened the cross and a tomb. The fears and hates of the Pharisees and rulers were surprised and reversed. Jesus made no attempt at temporal power and offered no resistance. II. THIS DAY EMPHASIZES SPIRITUALITY AS THE ONLY KEY TO A RIGHT UNDERSTANDING OF PERSONS AND PROVIDENCES. Christ was revealed as a king, but not of this world. After the gift of the Spirit the apostles clearly perceived the prediction of prophecy, the prediction of providence, in the songs of praise. III. WHAT THE DAY TEACHES OF THE CHILD-LIKE SPIRIT SHOULD NOT ESCAPE. IV. WE SHALL NOT BE TOO BOLD IN PRONOUNCING THIS DAY MEMORABLE AS A PROPHECY. The meaning of it was projected into the future. It is prophetic of the entrance into the heavenly Jerusalem, when, indeed, souls shall give Him homage. That triumphal entry into the city of David was followed by crucifixion. This triumphal entry into the city of God shall be consummated in coronation. (J. R. Danford.) Parallel Verses KJV: The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; WEB: The beginning of the Good News of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.