Bible Verse Commentary on Matthew 21:3
Matthew 21:3 reads: “And if anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord has need of them,’ and immediately he will send them.” This passage is rich in meaning and significance, illustrating themes of divine authority and preparation.
Overview of Matthew 21:3
This verse occurs in the context of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. He instructs His disciples to fetch a donkey and a colt, symbolizing His fulfilling Old Testament prophecy as the Messiah. The phrase "The Lord has need of them" reflects His authority and the divine necessity of the events unfolding.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
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Matthew Henry:
Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of obedience to the Lord’s commands. The disciples, without question, follow Jesus’ instructions, which demonstrates their faith and readiness. This incident also signifies Christ’s humility, choosing a humble donkey rather than a majestic horse, underscoring His mission of peace.
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Albert Barnes:
Barnes highlights the prophetic fulfillment in this verse, connecting it to Zechariah 9:9, where the coming King brings salvation in gentleness. The use of the phrase “The Lord has need of them” also suggests that God can work through ordinary circumstances and people—those who seem insignificant are often integral to His plans.
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Adam Clarke:
Clarke notes that this command shows the foresight of Christ. Knowing what would happen in advance, He orchestrated the events leading to His entry into Jerusalem. The disciples’ role in receiving and delivering the donkey and colt is a testament to their obedience, illustrating the theme of willing submission to divine direction.
Key Themes and Applications
The themes of authority, humility, and divine preparation prevail throughout this passage. In today’s context, this verse reminds believers to remain open to God’s plans and responsive to His calls, even when they seem daunting or unusual.
Divine Authority
The command given by Jesus signifies His lordship over all creation. Understanding this authority encourages believers to trust in His plans and respond with faith. It invites us to consider the ways God may be prompting us in our own lives.
Humility of Christ
Christ’s choice of a donkey instead of a royal steed reflects His humble approach to kingship. This can inspire believers to adopt humility in their lives, recognizing that greatness in the Kingdom of God comes through service and sacrifice.
Preparedness for God's Work
Jesus’ advance preparations indicate the importance of being ready for God’s work. This calls to mind the need for prayer, study, and attentiveness in followers of Christ, emphasizing the significance of being prepared to act when called upon.
Cross References
- Zechariah 9:9 - Prophecy of the King’s entry in humility.
- Luke 19:30-32 - Parallel passage regarding the donkey's retrieval.
- John 12:14-15 - John's account of the triumphal entry and its significance.
- Philippians 2:5-8 - The humility of Christ as a model for believers.
- Matthew 28:20 - The Lord's assurance of His presence in our endeavors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew 21:3 serves as an essential reference for understanding Jesus’ mission and character. This verse, along with insights from notable commentaries, offers profound Bible verse meanings that echo through generations. It challenges believers to reflect on their role within God’s plans, urging them to respond with obedience and humility to the Master’s call. Whether engaged in Bible study groups, utilizing Bible study tools, or pursuing online Bible study, the insights drawn from this passage can enrich our understanding of Scripture and enhance our spiritual growth.
