Matthew 21

See notes at Mark 11:1-26.

     21:15-17.  Cf. Mt.11:25.  The indignant reaction of the elites in v.15 was because Jesus did not rebuke the simple.  They understood the magnitude of the crowd’s claim very well.  Jesus responds with the quote from Ps.8:2 (v.16), which speaks of the praise Jehovah has prepared for Himself from the mouth of babes.  In short, “I am Jehovah.  They only speak the praise I have prepared for Myself.” This didn’t help their mood.

     21:18-22.  The barren fig tree is a metaphor for Jerusalem.  So is “this mountain” (v.21).  Mountains often represent political (and spiritual) power structures (kingdoms) in Scripture.  Some of these disciples will live to see this mountain cast into the depths in answer to their prayers for deliverance.  See notes at vv.42-46.  The cursing of the barren fig tree has a message similar to the parable of the wicked tenants (33-41).

     21:23-32.  As in vv.12-15, the question as always is about the source of Jesus’ authority to do these things (23).  Jesus has always said that the things he does themselves testify as to the source, and validate his message (cf. John 5:36; 10:25).  Jesus refused a question asked with evil intent by asking one which exposed the evil intent.  These men had rejected John’s baptism for repentance because they felt secure, and did not fear God.  Now they show that they do fear men (25-26).  Vv.28-32.  Jesus pointedly teaches that God looks for repentance and obedience, not lip service (cf. Mt.23:3,27).

     21:42-46.  Cf. 1 Peter 2:4-10.

     To understand “this stone” (44), and its relationship to “this mountain” (21), see these passages:  Ps.2:9;  Is.8:13-15;  28:16; Dan.2:34-35, 44-45;  Rev.11:15.

     To God’s enemies, the Kingdom of God and of his Christ is a stumbling stone.  It will become a great mountain which will fall on them and grind them to dust.  To God’s elect, the Kingdom will be a sanctuary set on the mountain of God, a Holy City of which Christ is the cornerstone of the foundation.  Cf. Ps.2:9;  Rev.18:21-24.

     21:45.  The chief priests were Sadducees.  They and the Pharisees were normally natural enemies.