Matthew 21:3 – “If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus prepares His disciples for potential questions or objections as they retrieve the donkey and colt for His entry into Jerusalem. He provides them with specific words to say: “The Lord needs them.” This phrase reflects Jesus’ authority and divine purpose. The response anticipates cooperation, showing that Jesus not only plans every detail but also ensures that His mission will unfold without hindrance. The simplicity of the instruction demonstrates both Jesus’ sovereignty and the willingness of others to participate in God’s plan when prompted.
Historical Context
During Jesus’ time, donkeys were common animals used for transportation and labor, often shared within communities. Borrowing an animal for a specific purpose wasn’t unusual, especially for religious occasions. The phrase “the Lord needs them” could have carried significant weight, especially among those who recognized Jesus as a teacher or prophet. The cultural and religious context of Passover also heightened awareness of sacred acts, making people more inclined to cooperate with perceived divine requests.
The willingness of the animal’s owner to comply may also reflect a societal respect for acts done in God’s name, as well as Jesus’ reputation in the region.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights Jesus’ divine authority over creation and human affairs. His simple command, coupled with the assurance of a favorable response, shows that God’s plan is always in motion and cannot be thwarted. The Lord’s “need” for the donkey and colt also underscores the profound mystery of God choosing to work through human participation in His redemptive plan. It reminds us that while God is self-sufficient, He often invites His people to join Him in fulfilling His purposes.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 21:3 serves as a bridge between Jesus’ instructions and the unfolding of prophecy. The verse is brief yet packed with meaning, emphasizing Jesus’ foresight and authority. The phrase “the Lord needs them” is central, conveying humility (the Lord requesting something) and power (the immediate compliance of others). This moment sets the stage for the fulfillment of Zechariah’s prophecy and the symbolic act of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem.
Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”
This verse emphasizes God’s ownership of all creation, aligning with Jesus’ authority over the donkey and colt. - Mark 11:3: “If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’” This parallel account in Mark provides additional detail, including the promise to return the animals.
- Exodus 3:19-22: God’s provision for His people during the Exodus foreshadows the way Jesus ensures that all necessary details for His mission are provided.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Matthew 21:3 serves as a reminder that God provides what is needed for His purposes. It encourages believers to trust in God’s timing and provision, even when instructions seem simple or unconventional. It also challenges us to be willing participants in God’s plan, like the owner of the donkey who allowed his possessions to be used for a greater purpose. This verse reassures us that when God calls us to act, He will remove obstacles and ensure everything falls into place.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving care and attention to detail in fulfilling His plan of salvation. By arranging even the small details, like borrowing a donkey, God demonstrates His commitment to making a way for redemption. His love is evident in His desire to involve His creation—both people and animals—in His work. It’s a reminder that God values partnership with His people, not because He needs us, but because He loves us.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 21:3 highlights Jesus’ identity as the Lord who holds authority over all things. His command reflects His role as the divine King who is also humble and approachable. The fulfillment of His instructions leads directly to His triumphal entry, a moment rich with messianic significance. This act foreshadows Jesus’ ultimate submission to the Father’s plan on the cross, where His humility and authority converge (Philippians 2:6-8).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does Jesus’ authority in this verse teach us about His role in God’s plan?
- How does this verse encourage you to trust God with the details of your life?
- In what ways can you offer your own resources or possessions for God’s purposes?
- How does the phrase “The Lord needs them” challenge our understanding of God’s invitation to participate in His work?
- What obstacles in your life might God be asking you to trust Him to remove?
This verse invites us to reflect on Jesus’ sovereignty and humility, trusting that He orchestrates even the smallest details of our lives for His glory and our good.