Learn to trust in God’s plan.

Mark 11:1–11

vv.1–6—Jesus finally arrives in Jerusalem, and people seem prepared for His arrival.

—The Mount of Olives is east of Jerusalem, with a deep valley in between.

—Jesus sends two of His disciples to a nearby village and perfectly details what they would find, what they would be asked, and how they should respond.

—There was an ancient practice, Angaria, where royalty or particular government officials could claim rights to an item or person for service. However, the disciples promise to bring back the colt shortly after use.

—This event could be an allusion to Genesis 49:9–11.

vv.7–10—The crowds receive the presence of Jesus like receiving a king.

—Zechariah 9:9 is a prediction of this event. Chapter 14 also predicts the Messiah’s return, touching the Mount of Olives on the great Day of the Lord.

—”Hosanna” is Hebraism meaning “Save now!”

—The crowd’s cries echo Psalm 118:26

—”In the name of the Lord” means with the Lord’s affirmation and with the Lord’s authority (His representative).

—The whole scene has kingly implications. In a week’s time, people will look back on this moment with great and tragic irony.

v.11—Jesus surveys the temple and returns to Bethany.

—The phrase “Already late” could mean that it was late in the day, so there was nothing else to be done, or it could be more metaphorical, claiming that the hour is late for the temple and its lifespan is about to come to an end. The following section could affirm this understanding.