The Triumphal Entry

Understanding the background behind a passage in the Bible can make its application much easier. For example in Matthew 10 Christ sent His disciples into the world, saying:

Matthew 10:9-10, “Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for you money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is worthy of his support.”

Traditionally, this text has been interpreted simply to mean that Christ wanted His disciples to be supported by those who received their ministry. However when we look at this passage’s background, we see that this commandment has striking parallels with the ordinances surrounding the dress of those who approached the Temple for worship. According to the laws of the Temple, the worshipper could not approach the Temple...

• “With his staff.”
• “With shoes on his feet”- he could only come with sandals.
• “With dust upon his feet.”
• Or even “with money tied to him in his purse.”

Christ’s commandment would have been understood by the Apostles to mean that NOT ONLY were they to be supported by those to whom they ministered, BUT THAT they were to go in the same spirit and manner as they had countless times gone to the Temple to worship. Their ministry in the kingdom was to be their only thought, undertaking, and care- just as the worshiper who approached the Temple! Without an understanding of the culture of Christ’s day it would be very easy to read past Christ’s words in Matthew 10 and thus miss an incredible truth!