Definition: And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:1. It's a really important part of how Jesus starts his ministry in the Bible! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus is starting to prepare for a big event. “When they drew nigh”: This means people – likely travelers and visitors – started arriving at Jerusalem. Think of it like a huge group of people coming to the city. “And were come to Bethphage”: Bethphage was a place in Galila (a region near Jerusalem) that Jesus had visited before. It’s a good symbol of a starting point. “unto the mount of Olives”: This is where Jesus decided to go – a very special and significant spot in Jerusalem. The “mount of Olives” has a long history as a place of worship and significance. Then, Jesus sent two disciples. “Sent Jesus…” This means Jesus decided to have some helpers along the way. “…two disciples”: This is key! It suggests that Jesus wasn't going alone. He needed someone to accompany him on his journey. What does this verse tell us about Jesus? It tells us that: Jesus was planning a big event. He knew he needed some help. He was setting the stage for something important. The location of Bethphage and the Mount of Olives are significant – they were places where people had been worshipping for a long time, and Jesus wanted to be near them. In short, this verse is like a sign that Jesus was getting ready for a major ministry – a really big journey that would change everything. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is important? Give you more context about the location of Bethphage and the Mount of Olives?

Definition: And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:10: “And when he came into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this?” It’s a really important and slightly dramatic beginning to Jesus’ ministry in Jerusalem. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus is starting to become a big deal – and everyone is reacting to him. Here’s a breakdown of the key ideas: “When he came into Jerusalem…” - This refers to Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, which was a major city. It's a significant moment because it marked the beginning of his ministry. “All the city was moved…” – This is the core of the verse. The entire city – meaning everyone living there – is moved . It's not just a little bit; it’s a massive shift in emotion and attention. It implies a feeling of shock, confusion, and perhaps even fear. “Saying, Who is this?” - This is the question that kicks off the whole situation. Jesus is asking who he is – who is this strange and new figure appearing in their midst? What does it mean? The verse speaks to a few things: Jesus’ Significance: It's suggesting that Jesus isn’t just a local preacher; he’s something more . He’s an unexpected, powerful arrival. Disruption & Confusion: The city being moved is symbolic of the disruption and confusion caused by Jesus' coming. People were used to their normal routines and expectations, and now they are thrown into a new and unfamiliar situation. A Call to Attention: Jesus is intentionally drawing attention to himself. He’s creating a moment where people need to understand him . In short, it’s a powerful opening that establishes Jesus as a significant figure who is causing a stir. It sets the stage for the rest of the Gospel – the story of Jesus' ministry and his impact on the lives of those around him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore why this verse is significant in the Bible?

Definition: And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse! It’s a really important one from the Gospels and it’s packed with meaning. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: “The multitude” – This refers to a large crowd of people gathered in a place like a synagogue or market, likely during a religious gathering. “…said…” – They were commenting on something that was happening. “…This is Jesus the prophet…” – This is the core of it. The people were saying that this person – who they knew was named Jesus – was indeed a prophet. What does "prophet" mean? In ancient times, a prophet was someone who announced important news or divinely inspired messages. They weren't necessarily priests or leaders; they were essentially messengers of God. So, what’s the significance? This verse is telling us that Jesus was recognized as a messenger – someone who spoke for God and announced important things. It suggests he wasn’t just a teacher or leader, but someone with a significant role in spreading God's word. In short: When people heard this phrase, they were saying Jesus was recognized as a prophet, meaning he was delivering messages from God. --- Do you want to delve deeper into any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like me to explain: Why the "multitude" is important in the context of the Bible? What might have been going on at that time? How this verse relates to Jesus’s teachings and mission?

Definition: And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:12. It’s a really significant and dramatic passage about Jesus’ actions in the Temple. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus is saying he’re taking away something very wrong with the Temple. Let’s unpack each part: “Jesus went into the temple of God…” – This tells us Jesus is entering a sacred place – the Temple, which was built for worship and connection with God. It's a really important spot. “…and cast out all those that sold and bought in the temple…” – This means Jesus is removing people who were involved in the business of selling and buying items within the Temple. Think of it like a marketplace – there were merchants, buyers, and sellers. This was a place where people offered sacrifices and made transactions. “…and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers…” - The Money Changers were people who made changes to currency (money). Jesus is stopping them from doing this, which is a major issue because it’s seen as a way for people to cheat or gain an unfair advantage. “and the seats of those that sold doves” – This refers to the places where people placed dove offerings in worship. Doves were used to symbolize peace and devotion. Jesus is removing these seats, which means he’s stopping the practice of offering doves. What's the Big Message? This verse is a powerful message about righteousness and purity. It highlights that the Temple was meant for God’s people and their worship. When people engaged in dishonest practices – like selling and buying items without being truly devoted to God – it was disrupting the sacred space and bringing shame to the Temple. Why is this important? Jesus' actions were a demonstration of his authority, showing that he is the King of God’s Temple and that he will not tolerate those who are not following God’s rules. It emphasizes that true worship should be about devotion and honoring God, not about material gain or trickery. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail with examples? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Connect it to a specific biblical theme (like forgiveness or justice)?

Definition: And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 21:13. Here’s an explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about how people are using a place – a temple or sacred space – and what they’re doing with it. It’s a bit of a warning! Let's unpack it piece by piece: "Matthew 21:13" : This is the specific verse we’re looking at. “And said unto them…” : This means Jesus is speaking directly to a group of people – likely disciples or followers of him. “…It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” This is the key part. What does it mean? Jesus is saying that they (the people) are treating this place – which he refers to as "my house" – in a way that’s not holy or peaceful. It's turning it into something negative and unpleasant. Here's how we can interpret it: “My house shall be called the house of prayer…” : Jesus is saying that he wants this place to be a place where people go to pray, reflect, and connect with God. “…but ye have made it a den of thieves.” This is the crucial part. “Thieves” means someone who steals or takes something valuable without giving back. It suggests they're: Taking things that don’t belong to them. They’re using this space for selfish purposes, like gambling, partying, or being dishonest. Destroying the spirit of reverence and peace. It’s making it a place where people feel uncomfortable, anxious, or even angry. Overall Meaning: Jesus is criticizing the people's behavior – their lack of respect, selfishness, and negativity – in this sacred space. He wants them to understand that they need to treat it with reverence and purity. It’s a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of using God’s spaces for good. In short: Jesus is saying that people are behaving badly in a place intended for worship, and he’s warning them about the consequences of their actions. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Matthew 21? Give you some examples of how people might be acting in a way that’s causing this problem?

Definition: And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 21:14: “And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them.” Basically, it means: Jesus was kind and helped people with disabilities and sight impairments while he was in a place that was usually reserved for religious gatherings. Here's a more detailed explanation: “The blind and the lame came to him…” This refers to people who were physically impaired – those who couldn’t see well, or had problems with their eyesight (like blindness). “…in the temple…” Temples were places where people would pray and offer sacrifices. It was a significant religious space. “And he healed them.” This is the core of the verse – Jesus showed compassion and care to people who were struggling with physical limitations. What does this tell us about Jesus? This story is often seen as an early example of Jesus’s ministry and his focus on helping those in need. It suggests: He was compassionate: He didn't just treat the wealthy or important; he cared for everyone who was hurting. He had a generous spirit: Healing someone, even when they are struggling, shows a willingness to help. It’s about more than just physical healing: While it might seem like a simple act of medicine, it represents a deeper message about love and mercy. Important Note: This story isn't necessarily about Jesus healing these people in the same way we might think of a doctor. It was likely a moment of genuine kindness and concern. --- Do you want to explore any of these aspects further? For example, would you like me to: Explain what "blind" and "lame" meant back then? Talk about the significance of this story in the context of Jesus’s ministry?

Definition: And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:15. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage about Jesus’ actions in the Temple. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus was performing miracles – things that seem to defy nature or rules – within the Temple in Jerusalem. He was healing people, raising the dead, and doing amazing things. But when people started praising him with a special prayer called “Hosanna,” meaning "Save Us," Jesus stopped these acts. Let’s unpack it: “And when the chief priests and scribes saw…” : This refers to religious leaders – the priests and scribes who were in charge of the Temple. They were very important and held significant power in the Jewish community. “…the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying…” : Jesus was performing miracles – things like healing a blind man, calming a violent crowd, and even raising a woman from the dead. These actions were incredibly impressive to everyone present. “…and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David;” : This is where it gets really interesting. The children were specifically calling him “Son of David.” “Son of David” was a very special title given to Jesus by God in the Old Testament. It meant he was the son of King David, who was a hugely important and beloved figure. What’s the big deal? The priests and scribes were displeased . They weren't happy with what Jesus was doing. They felt it was disrespectful to the traditions and rules they had set for the Temple. It was seen as a challenge to their authority and a disruption of the religious order. So, what’s the message? This verse is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus was challenging the established religious system and demanding respect for God's law. It suggests that Jesus wasn’t just performing miracles; he was also pointing out flaws in the ways people were honoring the Temple and its traditions. In short, it’s a story about a powerful moment where Jesus challenged authority and demanded reverence. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Talk about the historical context (when this verse was written)? Explore what this verse might mean in terms of Jesus' teachings?

Definition: And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:16. It’s a really interesting and slightly mysterious passage! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about Jesus looking at people who are criticizing or challenging him and noticing they’re actually making good praise for him. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say?" – Jesus is asking a question to the group of people who are talking about him. They're probably saying things like, "He’s being selfish," “He's making mistakes,” or “He’s not doing enough.” "And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?" – This is the key part. Jesus is saying: "Have you ever heard this idea before? Have you ever seen someone express praise for you ?" What does it mean? It’s like Jesus is saying, “Look at these people! They're not criticizing me; they're actually praising me .” He’s suggesting that the way they're speaking about him—with their words of criticism and negativity—is actually creating praise for him. Why is this significant? This verse points to a few important ideas: The Power of Children: Jesus is saying children (and those who are gentle and kind) have the ability to create something beautiful – praise – that can be incredibly powerful. Our Words Matter: The way we speak about others has a huge impact on how they see us. Words can be a form of praise, and sometimes they can even inspire it. In short, Jesus is saying that the way people talk about him is actually creating good praise for him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how people might express praise (in a positive way)?

Definition: And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:17. It's a really important one and it has some interesting implications! Here's what it means in simple terms: Jesus is leaving the city of Jerusalem and going to a place called Bethany. He then stays there for a while. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he left them…” : This tells us Jesus wasn't just walking away . He was deliberately choosing to leave his followers behind. “…and went out of the city into Bethany…” : Bethany is a small town, likely near the Sea of Galilee in the land of Israel. It’s a place where Jesus often preached and spent time with his disciples. “And he lodged there.” : This is the key part! He settled down in this Bethany location – it means he established a home there. What does this verse tell us about Jesus? This is interpreted as a few different things, but here are some common understandings: He’s comforting and providing for his followers: Leaving them behind suggests he's taking care of them, offering them safety and support. He's preparing for something bigger: It could be that Jesus is preparing to return to earth or that he’s establishing a new community with his disciples. It’s a temporary move: The verse implies it’s not a permanent stay. Jesus was leaving, but he wasn’t completely abandoning them. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated for centuries. Different interpretations exist, but the core message is that Jesus is showing compassion and providing for his people. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail? Or would you like me to explore a specific aspect of this verse (like its symbolism or historical context)?

Definition: Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:18: “Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he was hungry.” Basically, it means Jesus was feeling hungry. Here's a breakdown of what that suggests: “As he returned into the city”: This tells us Jesus was traveling back to Jerusalem after a day of teaching and preaching. It’s about him returning home. “He was hungry”: This is the core of the verse. It describes his physical state – he needed food. What does this tell us about Jesus? This simple statement highlights several important things: Jesus cared about people: He wasn't just focused on delivering a message; he had basic needs too. He was human: It shows that Jesus, despite being divine, is still a person and can experience physical hunger. He was relatable: It’s a very ordinary and personal moment – it reminds us that even the most powerful figures are vulnerable. Context is important: This verse is often seen as a sign of Jesus's humanity and his desire to connect with people. It’s a glimpse into his experience as a person, demonstrating compassion and understanding. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning behind this specific passage in more detail?