Luke 19:35 – “They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it.”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes the moment when the disciples bring the colt to Jesus and prepare it for Him to ride by placing their cloaks on its back. By doing this, the disciples show honor and reverence for Jesus. The act of putting their cloaks on the colt serves as an improvised saddle, but it also carries symbolic meaning, demonstrating their submission to Jesus as King. This simple but significant act sets the stage for Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where He will be publicly acknowledged as the Messiah.
The fact that Jesus is riding a colt that has never been ridden (as mentioned in Luke 19:30) is important because it fulfills Old Testament prophecy and signifies a sacred, royal purpose. Jesus’ entry on a colt, rather than a warhorse, sends a clear message that His kingship is one of peace, not of military conquest.
Historical Context
In ancient Jewish culture, placing cloaks on the ground or on an animal for a respected figure was a gesture of submission and respect. This act symbolized acknowledging the person’s authority and honor. In the Old Testament, people would spread their cloaks on the ground as a way of showing reverence for a king. For example, in 2 Kings 9:13, people laid their cloaks on the ground for Jehu when he was declared king of Israel.
Donkeys and colts were common means of transportation in ancient Israel, but their symbolic meaning was important. Kings and rulers who came in peace would ride donkeys or colts, while those who came for war rode horses. By riding a colt, Jesus was fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which described the Messiah entering Jerusalem humbly on a donkey. This action would have been recognized by those familiar with the prophecy as a declaration of His messianic identity.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes Jesus’ role as the humble King who fulfills God’s promises. His entry into Jerusalem on a colt demonstrates that He is not the type of king people expected. Many were hoping for a military leader who would overthrow Roman rule, but Jesus came as the King of peace, bringing salvation through humility and sacrifice. His choice to ride a colt instead of a warhorse reflects the nature of His mission—to bring spiritual peace and reconciliation with God, not political revolution.
The disciples’ act of placing their cloaks on the colt also illustrates an important aspect of discipleship: surrender and submission to Jesus. By laying their cloaks before Him, they symbolically placed their trust and devotion in Him as their Lord. This act reminds believers that following Jesus involves surrendering our own desires and submitting to His authority.
Additionally, this moment highlights the fulfillment of prophecy and the reliability of God’s Word. The events surrounding Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem were not random; they were part of God’s carefully orchestrated plan, showing that He is faithful to His promises.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s description of this event is simple yet meaningful. The act of placing cloaks on the colt is described in a matter-of-fact way, but it carries deep symbolic significance. The disciples’ obedience and honor toward Jesus are emphasized through their actions rather than their words, showing that faith is often demonstrated through simple acts of devotion.
Luke’s Gospel often highlights Jesus’ humility and the unexpected nature of His mission. In this passage, the humble act of riding a colt stands in contrast to what many people expected from a king. This tension between expectation and reality is a recurring theme in the Gospels, ultimately leading to the rejection and crucifixion of Jesus.
Biblical Cross-References
- Zechariah 9:9 – “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey.” This prophecy is fulfilled as Jesus rides into Jerusalem on the colt.
- 2 Kings 9:13 – “They quickly took their cloaks and spread them under him on the bare steps. Then they blew the trumpet and shouted, ‘Jehu is king!’” The act of spreading cloaks is associated with acknowledging a king’s authority.
- John 12:14-15 – “Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: ‘Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.’” This parallel passage confirms the fulfillment of prophecy.
- Matthew 21:7-8 – “They brought the donkey and the colt and placed their cloaks on them for Jesus to sit on. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.” This account adds more details about the crowd’s response.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder that Jesus’ kingship is defined by humility and peace, not by worldly power or dominance. When we think of a king, we often imagine someone with wealth, status, and military power. But Jesus redefined what it means to be a king. His rule is based on love, service, and sacrifice, and as His followers, we are called to live in the same way. Philippians 2:5-8 encourages believers to have the same mindset as Christ, who humbled Himself to serve others.
The disciples’ act of laying their cloaks on the colt also teaches us about surrender. Just as they offered what they had to honor Jesus, we are called to offer our lives, talents, and resources for His purposes. Following Jesus means placing our trust in Him and being willing to give up our comfort, pride, or possessions when He calls us to.
This verse also reassures us that God’s plans are perfect and that He fulfills His promises. Just as Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem fulfilled Old Testament prophecy, we can trust that God will keep His promises to us, even when we don’t fully understand how His plans will unfold.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is demonstrated in His faithfulness to fulfill His promises. The fact that Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem happened exactly as prophesied centuries earlier shows that God’s love is consistent and reliable. He doesn’t forget His promises or leave His people without hope.
God’s love is also seen in the humility of Jesus. Instead of coming as a conquering king, He came as a humble servant, willing to lay down His life for humanity. John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem was an expression of His love, as He willingly went to the city knowing that He would be rejected and crucified.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse points directly to Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and the promised Messiah. By riding on a colt, Jesus was making a public declaration of His identity as King, but He was also showing that His kingship was different from what people expected. He came not to establish a political kingdom but to bring salvation and peace through His death and resurrection.
The disciples’ actions also demonstrate their recognition of Jesus’ authority. Although they didn’t fully understand the significance of what was happening at the time, they obeyed and honored Jesus as their King. This moment foreshadows the greater revelation of Jesus’ kingship after His resurrection, when His followers would understand the full scope of His mission.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does Jesus’ choice to ride a colt instead of a warhorse teach you about His character and mission?
- Are there areas in your life where you struggle to surrender control to Jesus? How can you learn to trust Him more fully?
- How can you honor Jesus in your daily life, just as the disciples honored Him by laying their cloaks on the colt?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of humility in the Christian life?
- How can you find comfort in knowing that God’s plans are perfect and that He fulfills His promises?
This verse reminds us that Jesus is the humble King who brings peace and salvation. As His followers, we are called to honor Him with our lives, trust in His plans, and follow His example of humility and service. Through simple acts of obedience and surrender, we can be part of God’s greater plan to bring His kingdom to the world.