true and substantial sacrifice, which those of the law faintly and imperfectly represented. It was a
ransom for many, enough for all, working upon many; and, if for many, then the poor trembling
soul may say, Why not for me?
Verses 29–34
It is good for those under the same trial, or infirmity of body or mind, to join in prayer to God
for relief, that they may quicken and encourage one another. There is mercy enough in Christ for
all that ask. They were earnest in prayer. They cried out as men in earnest. Cold desires beg denials.
They were humble in prayer, casting themselves upon, and referring themselves cheerfully to, the
Mediator's mercy. They showed faith in prayer, by the title they gave to Christ. Surely it was by
the Holy Ghost that they called Jesus, Lord. They persevered in prayer. When they were in pursuit
of such mercy, it was no time for timidity or hesitation: they cried earnestly. Christ encouraged
them. The wants and burdens of the body we are soon sensible of, and can readily relate. Oh that
we did as feelingly complain of our spiritual maladies, especially our spiritual blindness! Many are
spiritually blind, yet say they see. Jesus cured these blind men; and when they had received sight,
they followed him. None follow Christ blindly. He first by his grace opens men's eyes, and so draws
their hearts after him. These miracles are our call to Jesus; may we hear it, and make it our daily
prayer to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Chapter 21
Chapter Outline
Christ enters Jerusalem. (1–11)
He drives out those who profaned the (12–17)
temple.
The barren fig-tree cursed. (18–22)
Jesus' discourse in the temple. (23–27)
The parable of the two sons. (28–32)
The parable of the wicked husbandmen. (33–46)Verses 1–11
This coming of Christ was described by the prophet Zechariah, Zec 9:9. When Christ would
appear in his glory, it is in his meekness, not in his majesty, in mercy to work salvation. As meekness
and outward poverty were fully seen in Zion's King, and marked his triumphal entrance to Jerusalem,
how wrong covetousness, ambition, and the pride of life must be in Zion's citizens! They brought
the ass, but Jesus did not use it without the owner's consent. The trappings were such as came to
hand. We must not think the clothes on our backs too dear to part with for the service of Christ.
The chief priests and the elders afterwards joined with the multitude that abused him upon the cross;