The Beginning:
As Jesus approached Jerusalem, he came to the villages near the Mount of Olives. He sent two disciples to obtain a donkey (and its colt), instructing them what to say if questioned. The disciples did as Jesus said and brought the animal to him.
The Middle:
Jesus rode toward the city as crowds spread cloaks on the road, and others waved leafy branches and shouted praises to God. They acclaimed him with royal and messianic language, including “Hosanna” and “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,” identifying him with David’s kingdom hopes. The Gospels present this entry as fulfilling Scripture, highlighting Jesus’ deliberate choice to come in humility and peace. Some religious leaders objected to the public acclamation, while the city was stirred by the question of who Jesus was.
The End:
Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple area, looking around before withdrawing for the night (Mark). Luke notes that Jesus wept over the city, warning of coming judgment because it did not recognize the time of God’s visitation. The entry publicly marked Jesus’ arrival for the final events leading to his suffering, death, and resurrection.
The triumphal entry reveals Jesus as the promised King who fulfills God’s purposes, yet not in the expected pattern of political conquest. By choosing a donkey, Jesus embodies a kingship characterized by humility and peace, aligning with prophetic expectation and showing that God’s salvation comes through obedience and self-giving rather than force. The crowds’ praise and the leaders’ resistance foreshadow the divided response to Jesus that will intensify during the Passion. The story sets the theological direction of Holy Week: the King comes to his city and to the temple, moving intentionally toward the cross.
During major feasts like Passover, Jerusalem’s population swelled with pilgrims, and Roman authorities were alert to any sign of unrest. Public processions and messianic slogans could be politically charged, which helps explain the tension in the narrative as Jesus’ entry drew attention from both the crowds and the authorities.
“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” — Luke 19:38
Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.
1. What did Jesus ride as he entered Jerusalem?
2. According to Luke’s account, what did Jesus do regarding Jerusalem during the entry?