The bull of St Luke

THE GOSPEL OF LUKE

The Mount of Olives: Lk 19,29-40

We read verse 28 with its reference to Jerusalem as concluding the parable, 19,11-28. Yet in a way this verse also look forward. When is Jerusalem next mentioned by name? Note verse 41. What is not said? Seee Mk 11,11.

We now begin this scene as we saw in the overview with verse 29 when Jesus is approaching the Mount of Olives. We have also seen how verse 41 begins the final incident of Jesus' journey before he enters the Temple in 19,45.
We need therefore to consider the consequences of reading this incident as 19,29-40.

Verse 37 tells us where the procession takes place. Compare this with the other three Gospels, Mt 21,10; Mk 10,11 & Jn 12,12. Look at Zechariah 14,4 for its significance.

Now make a careful comparison with Mark's account: Mk 11,1-10. What do the two versions have in common, how has Luke altered Mark?

Bethany is at the top of the Mount of Olives. How are we to understand Jesus' instructions in verse 30 to 31 and their fulfillment in verses 32-34? Note the phrase repeated in verses 31 and 34.

For verse 35, take a look at Zechariah 9,9.

In verse 36 what is left out from Mark and what as a result is highlighted?

What is the effect of verse 37? Note who is present in Luke but not mentioned by Mark.

Check the quotation in verse 37 with psalm 118. What word has Luke added to the quotation? See Mk 11,9. See also 23,23.38. Look back to 2,14.

Is there a special reason for the Pharisees' concern in verse 39?

Note how verse 40 seems to reflect Habbakuk 2,11.

Then look at my response.

Following this pause in the story, we can now hear Luke telling us about the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem Temple, Lk 19,41-48.