Commentary on John 12:14

In John 12:14 we read:

"And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written,"

Introduction

This passage marks a significant moment in the Gospel of John, highlighting Jesus’s fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and his identification as the Messiah. The imagery of Jesus riding on a young donkey is laden with meaning, demonstrating humility and kingship.

Contextual Background

Leading up to this event, Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, and this miracle had stirred considerable excitement among the people (John 11:43-44). As he makes his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the anticipation of the crowds reflects an amalgam of hopes placed in him as the coming King.

Historical Context

The young donkey mentioned in this passage signifies Jesus's royal status yet subverts the conventional expectations of a conquering king. Rather than a majestic stallion, a donkey points to peace. Historically, kings who rode on donkeys were not leading armies into battle but were coming in peace.

Key Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of the prophetic fulfillment in this act. He notes that Jesus's choice of a young donkey is significant as it fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah:

"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass."

Henry further explains that the greeting of the people, who laid their garments on the ground and waved palm branches, signifies their recognition of Jesus's authority and recounts the duality of their acclamation and later, their potential disappointment. Their initial excitement may transform into eventual disillusionment as they do not grasp the nature of Jesus's mission.

Albert Barnes's Notes

Albert Barnes provides a detailed reflection on the symbolism of the donkey. He points out that this act served to highlight Jesus's humility and the nature of his kingship. According to Barnes:

"This was the manner in which kings were often received; it showed that he was a King of peace, and that he came not to take away life, but to give it."

Moreover, Barnes mentions that the disciples did not fully understand the significance of these events at the time but later recognized them as a profound act of revealing Jesus’s identity and mission. This lack of immediate understanding illustrates a common theme in John’s Gospel of gradual revelation and understanding.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a deeper exploration of the fulfillment of prophecy. He observes that the act of Jesus riding a young donkey serves as a stark contrast to the expectations of a militant Messiah. Clarke states:

"He came to save, not to destroy; to bring peace, not to provoke war."

Clarke also discusses the significance of crowds shouting "Hosanna," linking it with Psalm 118:25-26, which reflects the people's recognition of Jesus as their deliverer. He emphasizes the importance of understanding this moment as a pivotal point in Jesus’s ministry — a divine confirmation of his identity right before the culmination of his sacrificial work.

Theological Implications

This passage encapsulates several theological themes crucial to understanding Christology:

• Fulfillment of Prophecy: The act of riding a donkey fulfills prophetic scripture, reinforcing Jesus's identity as the Messiah.
• Messianic Identity: The nature of kingship presented – Jesus as a humble servant is contrasted with expectations of political power.
• Peace and Salvation: The choice of a donkey over a warhorse symbolizes Jesus’s mission to offer peace and salvation to humanity.
• Human Response: The responsive acclamations of the crowd showcase the duality of human recognition of Jesus's authority and the complexities of their understanding.

Conclusion

The significance of John 12:14 extends beyond a mere historical event; it encapsulates profound truths about Jesus’s role as the Savior and the nature of his kingship. It challenges readers to grasp the importance of humility in leadership and the transformative nature of peace over violence. For pastors, theologians, and students, this passage invites a deeper reflection on how Jesus’s approach to kingship offers a model for Christian living and leadership in a world often driven by power and prestige.