The Easter story is central to the Christian faith. It recounts Jesus’ crucifixion, death, and resurrection – the pivotal events that brought salvation to mankind. As we approach Easter, let’s take some time to reflect on the biblical accounts surrounding these world-changing events.
On Easter Reading Plan Day 2, we’ll explore the events leading up to the crucifixion. This includes Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, his final teachings in the temple courts, the plot against him, the Last Supper with his disciples, and his prayers in Gethsemane. By walking through these passages, we gain insight into Jesus’ purpose, character, and submission to the Father’s will.
Jesus’ Triumphal Entry (Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19)
Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem marks the beginning of the final week of his earthly ministry. As he approaches the city, Jesus sends two disciples to bring him a donkey, in fulfillment of Zechariah’s prophecy about a humble king coming to Jerusalem (Zechariah 9:9). The large crowd spreads their cloaks on the road and shouts “Hosanna to the Son of David!” – publicly proclaiming Jesus as Messiah and King. But Jesus weeps over the city, knowing the suffering it will soon face for rejecting him.
Despite his popularity among the people, the religious leaders resent and reject Jesus’ authority. The stage is set for the culmination of their plotting against him. Still, Jesus remains focused on his mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). He refuses to be deterred by the opposition against him.
Jesus at the Temple (Matthew 21:12–17; Mark 11:15–19; Luke 19:45-48)
After his triumphal entry, Jesus goes to the temple and drives out those buying and selling there. He accuses them of turning God’s house into “a den of robbers” (Matthew 21:13). Jesus reminds them that God desires mercy, not religious pretense. He then begins to heal the blind and lame who come to him, even as the chief priests and scribes become indignant over his popularity.
This cleansing of the temple signifies God’s judgment on the religious corruption of Jerusalem. Jesus has thrown down the gauntlet against the powers that be. While they seek an opportunity to arrest him, the common people are amazed by his teaching. He further antagonizes the religious elite by accepting praise from children in the temple courts.
The Plot to Kill Jesus (Matthew 26:1-5; Mark 14:1-2; Luke 22:1-6)
After Jesus’ actions in the temple, the chief priests and elders “plotted together in order to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill him” (Matthew 26:4). Judas agrees to betray Jesus and lead the religious authorities to him when no crowd is present. The Jewish leaders, though divided on other issues, are unified in their opposition to Jesus and desire to put him to death.
This marks a major turning point – the religious authorities decide tostop taKing Jesus and instead actively conspire to have him killed. Though Jesus knows what is coming, he does not try to resist or escape. His sacrifice is the Father’s will, which he is fully committed to fulfilling.
The Last Supper (Matthew 26:17-30; Mark 14:12-26; Luke 22:7-23)
On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, Jesus instructs his disciples to prepare the Passover meal. During this Last Supper, he institutes a new covenant in his blood, symbolized by the bread and wine. Jesus establishes this as an ongoing remembrance of his sacrificial death on behalf of his followers.
Jesus also announces that one of the disciples will betray him, and identifies Judas as the one. Satan enters Judas, who leaves to lead the religious authorities to where Jesus can be arrested away from the crowds. Jesus dismisses him, setting the betrayal in motion. He also foretells Peter’s denial, warning him of his coming failure despite his intentions.
Jesus Prays in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46)
After the Last Supper, Jesus takes his disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. He asks Peter, James and John to stand watch while he goes to pray alone. In deep anguish over his coming crucifixion, Jesus begs for the cup of suffering to pass from him. But ultimately, he submits to the Father’s will. Jesus returns to find his disciples sleeping instead of standing watch.
This passage provides a glimpse into Jesus’ humanity as he grapples with the agony of his impending crucifixion. Despite desiring to avoid suffering and death, he chooses humble obedience to the Father’s plan. His submission in Gethsemane sets Jesus on the course toward the cross.
Key Takeaways
As we reflect on the events leading up to the crucifixion, here are some key truths that stand out:
- Jesus remains committed to his mission despite growing opposition from religious leaders.
- Though popularity among the people provides temporary insulation, the cross still awaits.
- Jesus remains in control, actively taking steps toward the fulfillment of prophecy.
- The Last Supper establishes Jesus’ new covenant and the practice of Communion.
- Jesus grapples honestly with the reality of suffering and submits to the Father’s will.
The stage is now thoroughly set for the confrontation between Jesus and the religious authorities in Jerusalem. As the crucifixion and resurrection draw near, we see glimpses of both Jesus’ divinity and humanity. He faces the challenge before him with purpose and resolve, despite great emotional distress. May his example spur us on as we carry our own crosses in pursuit of God’s will.
On Easter Reading Plan Day 3, we will cover Jesus’ arrest and Jewish trial. Despite the intense injustice committed against him, we will see Jesus’ commitment to laying down his life according to the Scriptures. As we meditate on these passages, we gain insight into how we can trust God even when facing unjust suffering.
The Easter story reminds us that God works powerfully even through our darkest moments. Jesus’ sacrifice opened the door for redemption and restoration. As we walk with Jesus toward the crucifixion, we see glimpses of the mighty plan God was working to save mankind. May we reflect on and give thanks for Christ’s sacrifice, looking forward to the glory of Easter Sunday where death is defeated once and for all.
The events leading up to the crucifixion – Jesus’ triumphal entry, temple cleansing, Last Supper, betrayal, prayer in Gethsemane – set the stage for the climax of Christ’s mission on earth. Despite growing hostility from the religious authorities, Jesus remains committed to the Father’s will. Even when grappling with the agony of the cross in the garden, he ultimately submits to God’s plan. As disciples, we can follow Christ’s model of humble obedience in the face of adversity and suffering. Jesus kept his focus on the joy set before him (Hebrews 12:2), trusting the Father to work redemption even through death.