Luke 19:30
saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here.
Go into the village ahead of you
This phrase begins with a directive from Jesus, emphasizing His authority and foreknowledge. The Greek word for "go" (πορεύομαι, poreuomai) implies a journey or mission, suggesting that the disciples are being sent with purpose. The "village ahead of you" indicates a specific location known to Jesus, showcasing His divine omniscience. Historically, this reflects the itinerant nature of Jesus' ministry, where He often moved from place to place, engaging with different communities.

As you enter it
The phrase "as you enter it" suggests immediacy and expectation. The Greek word for "enter" (εἰσέρχομαι, eiserchomai) conveys the act of going into a place, which in this context, implies obedience to Jesus' command. This reflects the disciples' role as active participants in Jesus' mission. The historical context here is significant, as entering a village would often involve engaging with its inhabitants, indicating the beginning of a new phase in Jesus' ministry.

You will find a colt tied there
The mention of a "colt" (Greek: πῶλος, pōlos) is significant, as it fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9 about the Messiah entering Jerusalem on a donkey's colt. The colt being "tied" suggests it is reserved for a specific purpose, highlighting divine providence. This imagery is rich with messianic symbolism, as the colt represents peace, contrasting with a war horse, and signifies Jesus' role as the Prince of Peace.

Which no one has ever ridden
The detail that "no one has ever ridden" the colt underscores its purity and suitability for a sacred purpose. In ancient times, animals used for religious purposes were often those that had not been used for common work. This untouched colt symbolizes Jesus' unique and holy mission. Theologically, it points to the newness of the kingdom Jesus is inaugurating, one that is untainted by previous human endeavors.

Untie it and bring it here
The command to "untie it" (Greek: λύω, lyō) signifies liberation and readiness for service. This act of untying can be seen as a metaphor for releasing what is bound for God's purposes. "Bring it here" indicates the colt's role in the immediate unfolding of God's plan. This reflects the disciples' obedience and trust in Jesus' instructions, serving as a model for Christian discipleship. The historical context of bringing the colt to Jesus highlights the preparation for His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, giving instructions to His disciples. His command demonstrates His divine knowledge and authority.

2. The Disciples
Followers of Jesus who are tasked with retrieving the colt. Their obedience is crucial to the unfolding of the event.

3. The Village
The unnamed location where the colt is found. It represents a place of preparation for Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.

4. The Colt
A young donkey, symbolizing peace and humility. It fulfills the prophecy of the Messiah's entry into Jerusalem.

5. Jerusalem
The destination of Jesus' journey, where significant events of His ministry, including His crucifixion, will occur.
Teaching Points
Divine Foreknowledge and Authority
Jesus' instruction to find the colt demonstrates His divine knowledge and authority over events. Believers can trust in His sovereignty over their lives.

Obedience to Christ's Commands
The disciples' willingness to follow Jesus' instructions without question serves as a model for believers to obey Christ, even when the reasons are not immediately clear.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
The event underscores the importance of prophecy in validating Jesus as the Messiah. Believers are encouraged to study and understand biblical prophecies to strengthen their faith.

Symbol of Peace and Humility
Jesus' choice of a donkey, rather than a horse, symbolizes His peaceful mission and humility. Christians are called to emulate these qualities in their own lives.

Preparation for Greater Events
The seemingly small task of retrieving a colt was part of a larger divine plan. Believers should be faithful in small tasks, recognizing they may be part of God's greater purpose.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Jesus' instruction to the disciples in Luke 19:30 demonstrate His divine knowledge and authority?

2. In what ways does the fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9 in this passage strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

3. What can we learn from the disciples' obedience to Jesus' seemingly unusual command, and how can we apply this in our daily walk with Christ?

4. How does Jesus' choice of a donkey as His mode of entry into Jerusalem reflect His mission and character, and how can we apply these attributes in our interactions with others?

5. Reflect on a time when a small act of obedience in your life led to a greater purpose. How can this passage encourage you to be faithful in the small things God asks of you?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Zechariah 9:9
This Old Testament prophecy foretells the Messiah entering Jerusalem on a donkey, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' actions.

Matthew 21:1-7
This parallel account provides additional details about the event, emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy and the obedience of the disciples.

John 12:14-15
Another account of the triumphal entry, reinforcing the significance of Jesus riding on a donkey as a symbol of peace.
Christ's RoyaltyW. Clarkson Luke 19:28-38
All Ought to Praise GodJ. Parker, D. D.Luke 19:28-40
Christ Journeying to JerusalemExpository OutlinesLuke 19:28-40
Enthusiasm in ReligionDavid Gregg.Luke 19:28-40
Every Good Man is Needful to Complete God's DesignAustin Phelps.Luke 19:28-40
Guilty Silence in Christ's CauseW. Jay.Luke 19:28-40
He Went BeforeP. B. Power, M. A.Luke 19:28-40
Hosannas to JesusN. H. Van Arsdale.Luke 19:28-40
Jesus Our Meek and Humble KingStauss.Luke 19:28-40
One LordLuke 19:28-40
OwnershipJ. Bolton, B. A.Luke 19:28-40
Praise Thy God, O ZionC. H. Spurgeon.Luke 19:28-40
The Coming KingJ. Treanor, B. A.Luke 19:28-40
The Lord's NeedJ. B. Meharry, B. A.Luke 19:28-40
The Triumphal EntryDavid Gregg.Luke 19:28-40
Thefulfilment of Minute PropheciesJ. Parker, D. D.Luke 19:28-40
Why We are Needful to GodChristian AgeLuke 19:28-40
The Advent of the Humble KingR.M. Edgar Luke 19:28-48
People
Jesus, Zacchaeus
Places
Bethany, Bethphage, Jericho, Jerusalem, Mount of Olives, Olivet
Topics
Ahead, Ass, Ass's, Bound, Bring, Child, Colt, Cord, Enter, Entering, Facing, Fixed, Foal, Front, Hither, Lead, Loose, Loosed, Opposite, Over-against, Ridden, Sat, Saying, Seated, Sit, Tied, Town, Untie, Village, Whereon, Yet
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Luke 19:30

     2021   Christ, faithfulness
     5507   rope and cord

Luke 19:28-38

     7241   Jerusalem, significance

Luke 19:29-31

     1424   predictions
     4017   life, animal and plant

Luke 19:29-34

     2590   Christ, triumphal entry

Luke 19:29-44

     2590   Christ, triumphal entry

Luke 19:30-31

     5233   borrowing

Luke 19:30-35

     4621   colt

Library
August 31 Evening
Occupy till I come.--LUKE 19:13. The Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.--Unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.--Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?--Leaving
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

October 28. "Thou Good Servant, Because Thou Hast Been Faithful in a Very Little, have Thou Authority Over Ten Cities" (Luke xix. 17).
"Thou good servant, because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities" (Luke xix. 17). It is not our success in service that counts, but our fidelity. Caleb and Joshua were faithful and God remembered it when the day of visitation came. It was a very difficult and unpopular position, and all of us are called in the crisis of our lives to stand alone and in this very matter of trusting God for victory over sin and our full inheritance in Christ we have all to be
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

The Kingdom of Christ
LUKE xix. 41. And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it. Let us think awhile what was meant by our Lord's weeping over Jerusalem. We ought to learn thereby somewhat more of our Lord's character, and of our Lord's government. Why did he weep over that city whose people would, in a few days, mock him, scourge him, crucify him, and so fill up the measure of their own iniquity? Had Jesus been like too many, who since his time have fancied themselves saints and prophets, would
Charles Kingsley—Discipline and Other Sermons

Melted by Kindness
'And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to-day I must abide at thy house.' --LUKE xix. 5. It is characteristic of Luke that only he tells the story of Zacchaeus. He always dwells with special interest on incidents bringing out the character of Christ as the Friend of outcasts. His is eminently the Gospel of forgiveness. For example, we owe to Him the three supreme parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

The Trading Servants
'Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.... And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.' --LUKE xix.16, 18. The Evangelist, contrary to his usual practice, tells us what was the occasion of this parable. It was spoken at Jericho, on our Lord's last journey to Jerusalem, Bethany was but a day's march distant; Calvary but a week ahead. An unusual tension of spirit marked our Lord's demeanour, and was noticed by the disciples with awe. It infected
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

The Rewards of the Trading Servants
'Because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities... Be thou also over five cities.'--LUKE xix. 17, 19. The relation between this parable of the pounds and the other of the talents has often been misunderstood, and is very noteworthy. They are not two editions of one parable variously manipulated by the Evangelists, but they are two parables presenting two kindred and yet diverse aspects of one truth. They are neither identical, as some have supposed, nor contradictory,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

A New Kind of King
'And when He was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; 38. Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. 38. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto Him, Master, rebuke Thy disciples. 40. And He answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions Of Holy Scripture

December the Eighteenth the Sinner's Guest
"He is gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner." --LUKE xix. 1-10. It was hurled as an accusation; it has been treasured as a garland. It was first said in contempt; it is repeated in adoration. It was thought to reveal His earthliness; it is now seen to unveil His glory. Our Saviour seeks the home of the sinner. The Best desires to be the guest of the worst. He spreads His kindnesses for the outcasts, and He offers His friendship to the exile on the loneliest road. He waits to befriend the
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

August the Twenty-Sixth Missing the Lord
"Thou knowest not the time of thy visitation." --LUKE xix. 37-44. Yes, that has been my sad experience. I have wasted some of my wealthiest seasons. I have treated the hour as common and worthless, and the priceless opportunity has passed. There have been times when my Lord has come to me, and I have turned Him away from my door. He so often journeys "incognito," and if I am thoughtless I dismiss Him, and so lose the privilege of heavenly communion and benediction. He knocks at my door as a Carpenter,
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

Effectual Calling
1. Now, first, effectual calling is a very gracious truth. You may guess this from the fact that Zaccheus was a character whom we should suppose the last to be saved. He belonged to a bad city--Jericho--a city which had been cursed, and no one would suspect that any one would come out of Jericho to be saved. It was near Jericho that the man fell among thieves; we trust Zaccheus had no hand in it; but there are some who, while they are publicans, can be thieves also. We might as well expect converts
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

The Mission of the Son of Man
Our text announces as a declaration of our Saviour, that he, the Son of Man, is come to seek and to save that which was lost. In addressing you this morning, I shall simply divide my discourse thus:--First, I shall lay it down as a selfevident truth, that whatever was the intention of Christ in his coming into the world that intention most certainly shall never be frustrated. We shall then in the second place, look into the intention of Christ, as announced in the text, viz., "to seek and to save
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858

A Day to be Remembered
"And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house."--Luke 19:9. OBSERVE, DEAR FRIENDS, that our Lord spoke this sentence to Zacchaeus. Some of us may have fancied that he said it to the objecting people, but he did not. They may have heard it, and their objection may have been answered by it, but the main purpose of our blessed Lord, in uttering those words, was not to answer objectors, but to comfort one who might feel dispirited by their murmuring remark. Therefore, "Jesus said
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 46: 1900

The Honoured Guest
ARE you prepared, like Zaccheus, to give the Lord Jesus Christ a glad and grateful welcome? If we would obtain the full benefit of his devoted life, his atoning death, and his triumphant resurrection, we must receive him into our hearts by simple faith, and entertain him with tender love. Outside the door of our heart Jesus is a stranger; he is no Saviour to us; but inside the heart which has been opened, by divine grace, to admit him, his power is displayed, his worth is known, and his goodness
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 61: 1915

The Tears of Christ.
(Tenth Sunday after Trinity.) S. LUKE xix. 41. "He beheld the city, and wept over it." The saddest sight, save one, in the history of the world is that pictured in the text--the Son of God weeping over the city which God had chosen to put His Name there. Let us, in fancy, to-day look upon the scene on which our Saviour looked, and recall the history of that city which had lost sight of the things concerning her peace. No other city in the world, not even Rome, has such a wonderful story as Jerusalem.
H. J. Wilmot-Buxton—The Life of Duty, a Year's Plain Sermons, v. 2

The Consequences of Sin.
10th Sunday after Trinity. S. Luke xix, 42. "If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes." INTRODUCTION.--I spoke to you the other day about the measure of sin, and showed you that there was a certain limit allotted to every man, beyond which he could not go and still expect forgiveness, a point in the downward course at which the Holy Spirit will cease to strive to hold him back. We see in this day's Gospel
S. Baring-Gould—The Village Pulpit, Volume II. Trinity to Advent

Ciii. Zacchæus. Parable of the Pounds. Journey to Jerusalem.
(Jericho.) ^C Luke XIX. 1-28. ^c 1 And he entered and was passing through Jericho. [This was about one week before the crucifixion. Jericho is about seven miles from the Jordan and about seventeen and a half from Jerusalem.] 2 And behold, a man called by name Zacchaeus; and he was a chief publican, and he was rich. [See p. 76. It is probable that Zacchæus was a sub-contractor under some Roman knight who had bought the privilege of collecting taxes at Jericho, or perhaps the privilege of all
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

In Jericho and at Bethany - Jericho - a Guest with Zacchæus - the Healing of Blind Bartimæus - the Plot at Jerusalem - at Bethany,
ONCE more, and now for the last time, were the fords of Jordan passed, and Christ was on the soil of Judæa proper. Behind Him were Peræa and Galilee; behind Him the Ministry of the Gospel by Word and Deed; before Him the final Act of His Life, towards which all had consciously tended. Rejected as the Messiah of His people, not only in His Person but as regarded the Kingdom of God, which, in fulfilment of prophecy and of the merciful Counsel of God, He had come to establish, He was of
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Last Week of Jesus.
Jesus did in fact set out with his disciples to see once more, and for the last time, the unbelieving city. The hopes of his companions were more and more exalted. All believed, in going up to Jerusalem, that the kingdom of God was about to be realized there.[1] The impiety of men being at its height, was regarded as a great sign that the consummation was at hand. The persuasion in this respect was such, that they already disputed for precedence in the kingdom.[2] This was, it is said, the moment
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus

The Servants and the Pounds.
"And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come. But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us. And
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

General Principles of Interpretation. 1 Since the Bible Addresses Men in Human Language...
CHAPTER XXXIV. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION. 1. Since the Bible addresses men in human language, and according to human modes of thinking and speaking, the interpreter's first work is to ascertain the meaning of the terms employed. Here he must proceed as in the case of other writings, seeking by the aid of grammars, lexicons, cognate languages, ancient versions, ancient interpreters, and whatever other outward helps are available, to gain a thorough knowledge of the language employed by
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

Monday in Passion Week. And when He was Come Near, He Beheld the City and Wept Over It.
And when He was come near, He beheld the city and wept over it. Du weinest für Jerusalem [76]Heermann. 1630. trans. by Catherine Winkworth, 1855 Thou weepest o'er Jerusalem, Lord Jesus, bitter tears; But deepest comfort lies in them For us, whose sins have filled our soul with tears: Since they that tell, When sinners turn to Thee Thou lov'st it well, And surely wilt efface, of Thy unbounded grace, All the misdeeds that on our conscience dwell. When God's just wrath and anger burn Against
Catherine Winkworth—Lyra Germanica: The Christian Year

Epistle Xlvii. To Dominicus, Bishop.
To Dominicus, Bishop. Gregory to Dominicus, Bishop of Carthage [1454] . We have received with the utmost gratification the letters of your Fraternity, which have reached us somewhat late by the hands of Donatus and Quodvultdeus, our most reverend brethren and fellow-bishops, and also Victor the deacon with Agilegius the notary. And though we thought that we had suffered loss from the tardiness of their coming, yet we find gain from their more abundant charity; seeing that from this delay in point
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Epistle xii. To Conon, Abbot of Lirinus (Lerins).
To Conon, Abbot of Lirinus (Lerins). Gregory to Conon, Abbot of the Monastery of Lirinus [126] . The carefulness of persons in authority is the safeguard of subjects, since one who watches over what is entrusted to him avoids the snares of the enemy. But how skilful thou art in ruling the brethren, and how earnestly watchful in keeping guard over them, we have learnt from the report of our most reverend brother and fellow-bishop Mennas [127] . And as our hearing of the unwary remissness of thy predecessor
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

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