Jesus: The Unveiling of the Messiah's True Identity

 

Summary

In this session, we explore the profound significance of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, as recorded in Matthew 21. This event, often celebrated as Palm Sunday, marks a pivotal moment where Jesus openly reveals His identity as the Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. As Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey, He consciously fulfills the prophecy from Zechariah, presenting Himself as the King of the Jews. This act signifies the unveiling of the "Messianic secret" that Jesus had previously kept hidden, due to the people's misconceptions about the Messiah's role. Contrary to popular belief, Jesus' mission was not to be a political liberator but a suffering servant, as depicted in Isaiah's prophecies.

The triumphal entry highlights two of Jesus' roles: as a King and as a Prophet. However, the New Testament reveals that Jesus fulfills a threefold office, known in theology as the "munus triplex": Prophet, Priest, and King. Each of these roles involves a mediatorial function, standing between God and humanity. As a Prophet, Jesus is the ultimate spokesperson for God, embodying the Word of God Himself. Unlike Old Testament prophets who spoke of the coming Messiah, Jesus' prophecies often centered on His own mission and identity.

In His priestly role, Jesus offers the ultimate sacrifice—Himself—fulfilling the symbolic sacrifices of the Old Testament. The book of Hebrews elaborates on Jesus as our great High Priest, who surpasses the Levitical priesthood by being a priest after the order of Melchizedek, a higher and eternal priesthood.

Finally, as King, Jesus embodies the righteous rule of God, fulfilling the promises of a coming King from the line of David. His kingship is not limited by earthly succession; He is the eternal King of Kings and Lord of Lords. This moment in Jerusalem is a culmination of Jesus' identity and mission, as He prepares to fulfill His ultimate purpose through His death and resurrection.

Key Takeaways:

- The Unveiling of the Messianic Secret: Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem marks the public revelation of His identity as the Messiah. This moment fulfills Zechariah's prophecy and challenges the popular expectation of a political liberator, emphasizing instead the role of a suffering servant. [04:47]

- The Threefold Office of Christ: Jesus fulfills the roles of Prophet, Priest, and King, each serving as a mediator between God and humanity. As Prophet, He embodies the Word of God; as Priest, He offers Himself as the ultimate sacrifice; and as King, He establishes an eternal reign. [07:27]

- Prophetic Fulfillment in Christ: Unlike Old Testament prophets who spoke of the coming Messiah, Jesus' prophecies often centered on Himself. He is both the subject and object of prophecy, revealing the depth of His mission and identity. [13:01]

- The Ultimate Priesthood of Jesus: Jesus' priesthood surpasses the Levitical order, as He is a priest after the order of Melchizedek. His sacrifice is once and for all, fulfilling the symbolic sacrifices of the Old Testament and establishing a new covenant. [15:38]

- The Eternal Kingship of Christ: Jesus' kingship fulfills the promises of a coming King from the line of David. His reign is eternal, with no need for dynastic succession, as He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, embodying the righteous rule of God. [22:11]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:43] - Journey to Jerusalem
- [01:30] - The Donkey and the Prophecy
- [02:14] - Fulfillment of Zechariah's Prophecy
- [03:02] - Hosanna and the Multitude
- [03:52] - The Offices of King and Prophet
- [04:47] - The Messianic Secret
- [05:42] - The Suffering Servant
- [06:38] - Jesus as Prophet and King
- [07:27] - The Threefold Office: Prophet, Priest, King
- [08:32] - Mediators in the Old Testament
- [09:29] - Prophets and Priests: Roles and Functions
- [11:19] - Prophetic and Priestly Roles Today
- [12:05] - Jesus as the Supreme Prophet
- [13:01] - Subject and Object of Prophecy
- [15:38] - Jesus' Ultimate Sacrifice
- [17:14] - Priesthood and Kingship
- [18:48] - Melchizedek's Superior Order
- [20:29] - The Righteous Rule of the King
- [22:11] - The Eternal Reign of Christ

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Matthew 21:1-11
- Zechariah 9:9
- Isaiah 53

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Observation Questions:

1. What specific actions did Jesus take to fulfill the prophecy from Zechariah as He entered Jerusalem? ([01:30])

2. How did the crowd react to Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, and what titles did they use to refer to Him? ([03:02])

3. What are the two distinct Jewish offices mentioned in the sermon that are highlighted during Jesus' triumphal entry? ([03:52])

4. According to the sermon, why did Jesus keep His Messianic identity a secret until His entry into Jerusalem? ([04:47])

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does Jesus' fulfillment of the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9 challenge the popular expectations of the Messiah during His time? ([05:42])

2. In what ways does the sermon describe Jesus as both the subject and object of prophecy, and why is this significant? ([13:01])

3. How does the sermon explain the significance of Jesus being a priest after the order of Melchizedek, and what does this mean for His priestly role? ([18:48])

4. What does the eternal kingship of Jesus, as described in the sermon, imply about His authority and reign compared to earthly kings? ([22:11])

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you had a misconception about Jesus' role in your life. How did you come to a clearer understanding, and what steps can you take to deepen your understanding of His true mission? ([04:47])

2. Jesus' entry into Jerusalem was a public declaration of His identity. How can you publicly declare your faith in your daily life, and what challenges might you face in doing so? ([03:02])

3. The sermon highlights Jesus as a suffering servant. In what ways can you embrace a servant's heart in your community, and how can you serve others selflessly this week? ([05:42])

4. Consider the threefold office of Christ: Prophet, Priest, and King. Which aspect of Jesus' role do you find most challenging to understand or relate to, and why? ([07:27])

5. Jesus' kingship is described as eternal and righteous. How can you allow Jesus to reign in your life, and what areas might you need to surrender to His authority? ([22:11])

6. The sermon discusses the importance of Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. How does this understanding of His priestly role impact your view of forgiveness and grace in your life? ([15:38])

7. Reflect on the concept of Jesus as the supreme prophet. How can you seek to hear and follow His voice more clearly in your daily decisions and actions? ([12:05])

Devotional

Day 1: The Unveiling of Jesus as the True Messiah
Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem marks a significant moment in His ministry, where He publicly reveals His identity as the Messiah. This event fulfills the prophecy from Zechariah, where the Messiah is depicted as a humble king riding on a donkey. Contrary to the expectations of many who anticipated a political liberator, Jesus presents Himself as a suffering servant, aligning with the prophecies in Isaiah. This moment challenges the popular belief of the Messiah's role, emphasizing that Jesus' mission was not to overthrow political powers but to bring spiritual salvation through His sacrifice. [04:47]

Zechariah 9:9 (ESV): "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

Reflection: How does understanding Jesus as a suffering servant rather than a political liberator change your perspective on His role in your life today?


Day 2: The Threefold Office of Christ
Jesus fulfills the roles of Prophet, Priest, and King, each serving as a mediator between God and humanity. As a Prophet, He embodies the Word of God, speaking not only of future events but also revealing His own mission and identity. As a Priest, Jesus offers Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, surpassing the symbolic sacrifices of the Old Testament. His kingship is eternal, fulfilling the promises of a coming King from the line of David. This threefold office highlights the comprehensive nature of Jesus' work and His unique position as the ultimate mediator. [07:27]

Hebrews 7:24-25 (ESV): "But he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them."

Reflection: In which of the three roles—Prophet, Priest, or King—do you most need Jesus to mediate in your life today, and why?


Day 3: Jesus as the Subject and Object of Prophecy
Unlike Old Testament prophets who spoke of the coming Messiah, Jesus' prophecies often centered on Himself. He is both the subject and object of prophecy, revealing the depth of His mission and identity. This dual role underscores the uniqueness of Jesus' ministry, as He not only fulfills the prophecies but also embodies them. His life and teachings provide a profound insight into the nature of God's plan for salvation, making Him the ultimate revelation of God's will. [13:01]

Luke 24:27 (ESV): "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself."

Reflection: How does seeing Jesus as both the subject and object of prophecy deepen your understanding of His mission and your relationship with Him?


Day 4: The Ultimate Priesthood of Jesus
Jesus' priesthood surpasses the Levitical order, as He is a priest after the order of Melchizedek. His sacrifice is once and for all, fulfilling the symbolic sacrifices of the Old Testament and establishing a new covenant. The book of Hebrews elaborates on Jesus as our great High Priest, who offers Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, providing a way for humanity to be reconciled with God. This priesthood is eternal and unchanging, offering believers a constant source of grace and intercession. [15:38]

Hebrews 9:11-12 (ESV): "But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption."

Reflection: In what ways can you rely on Jesus' eternal priesthood to find peace and assurance in your spiritual journey today?


Day 5: The Eternal Kingship of Christ
Jesus' kingship fulfills the promises of a coming King from the line of David. His reign is eternal, with no need for dynastic succession, as He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, embodying the righteous rule of God. This eternal kingship assures believers of His sovereign control over all creation and His ultimate victory over sin and death. As followers of Christ, we are invited to live under His righteous rule, experiencing the peace and justice that His kingdom brings. [22:11]

Revelation 11:15 (ESV): "Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, 'The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.'"

Reflection: How can you actively participate in and reflect the eternal kingship of Christ in your daily life, especially in areas where you struggle to see His rule?

Quotes


Now, at this point, a carefully guarded secret, that Jesus had kept His disciples under wraps concerning, was now made public. Anytime there was mention during Jesus earthly ministry about His being the Messiah, He would instruct His disciples as He had at the transfiguration, “Tell no man.” We call this the Messianic secret. [00:04:28]

The popular hope, the popular expectation of the Messiah, who was to come, would be a great warrior who would overthrow the Roman oppression and liberate the people of Israel from the yoke of Rome. But Jesus’ understanding of the Messiah was much deeper. He took all the strands of expectancy in Old Testament prophecy and knit them together into a complex portrait of what it would mean to be Messiah. [00:05:18]

And the element that was most important in that was the element of being a lowly servant who would suffer. Isaiah’s portrait of the Messiah in the latter chapters of that book was the portrait of the suffering servant. And that was not popular in the public appeal, and so Jesus had kept His identity under wraps until now. [00:05:54]

Now, the cloak of concealment is removed, and Jesus now, clearly fulfilling Old Testament prophecy, comes into the city in a triumphal procession indicating His position of royalty. And when the people said, “Who is this who’s coming in in this manner, where the people were shouting, ‘Hosanna, blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.’?” [00:06:31]

But if we look further in the New Testament, we understand that there are not merely two offices that Jesus fulfills, but there are three. And those three offices we call in theology the munus triplex, that is, the threefold office of Jesus. And the three offices that He is called to fulfill in His work are the offices of prophet, priest, and king. [00:07:21]

Now, what made them mediators was that they in some way stood between the people and God. I like to say that the basic difference between the prophet and the priest was this, that the prophet was God’s spokesman. The prophet would announce his statements with the preface, “Thus saith the Lord.” The prophets were agents of revelation. [00:09:29]

The priests, on the other hand, who were in a regular office and not a special charismatically appointed office like the prophets were, they had the function of carrying out the normal duties of the religious organization of Israel. And the two functions, more than any other that they performed, were first of all the offering of sacrifices and second of all the offering of prayers. [00:10:10]

Now, as far as the prophets were concerned, in New Testament categories, the supreme prophet of all time is Jesus. Jesus doesn’t just speak the Word of God. He is the Word of God. He’s the very incarnation of the Word of God. And He speaks with the full authority of the Father, when He speaks. Now, He also makes prophecies about the future. [00:12:00]

The amazing difference between the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament prophet Jesus has to do with what I call the subject and objective elements of prophecy. The subjective elements of prophecy refer to the prophets themselves as human subjects, and they would speak their words, and they had a content of future prediction that was a description of the One who was to come. [00:12:45]

The principal object of the priestly task was to offer sacrifices in behalf of the people. But in Jesus the priesthood finds the marriage once again of the subject and the object because when Jesus offers the sacrifice, the sacrifice that He offers is the sacrifice of Himself. And all the sacrifices that had been offered by the priests in the Old Testament were basically symbolic. [00:14:50]

The promise that God had made to the people of Israel of their future and perfect King, whose kingdom would reign forever, was a king who would come from the loins of David and who would come from the tribe of Judah. As early as Jacob’s blessings in the Old Testament, he said the scepter shall not depart from Judah until Shiloh comes. [00:17:22]

And the New Testament goes to great lengths to demonstrate that Jesus was of the tribe of Judah, so that He would be qualified to be king. But He’s also called the priest. How can He be priest and king at the same time because the priests were from the tribe of Levi in the Aaronic priesthood? [00:18:06]

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Transcript
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