To Jerusalem (Matt. 20:17-19)

As Jesus journeyed toward Jerusalem, He took His disciples aside to deliver a solemn prophecy:

See, we are going up to Jerusalem. And the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day (Matthew 20:18-19).

This passage marks a critical transition in Matthew’s Gospel, shifting from Jesus’ parabolic teachings on the kingdom of God to a direct prophecy concerning His impending suffering, death, and resurrection. Unlike many biblical prophecies concerning eschatology, this one would be fulfilled within the disciples’ own lifetimes.

The Road to Jerusalem

Jesus’ entire earthly ministry had been leading to this moment. Jerusalem was not merely a geographical destination but the stage upon which the eternal purpose of His incarnation would unfold. The disciples, however, failed to grasp the full significance of this journey. They expected an earthly kingdom, a restoration of Israel’s former glory under a Davidic king. Yet Jesus spoke of betrayal, condemnation, and crucifixion—concepts that did not align with their Messianic expectations.

This was not their first trip to Jerusalem. The Gospel of John records multiple visits, including the temple cleansing, the healing at Bethesda, and Jesus’ public teachings during the Feast of Tabernacles and Hanukkah. But this time would be different. Jesus was not going as a teacher or miracle worker; He was going as the Passover Lamb, the sacrifice for the sins of His people.

The Son of Man and His Mission

Jesus refers to Himself as the “Son of Man,” a title drawn from Daniel 7:13-14, where a divine figure receives everlasting dominion from the Ancient of Days. By using this title, Jesus was not merely emphasizing His humanity; He was declaring His divine authority and ultimate rule.

Yet, this exalted Son of Man would be delivered—not by chance, but according to God’s sovereign plan. He would be handed over to the Jewish religious leaders, condemned unjustly, and then surrendered to the Gentiles for execution. This was a shocking revelation. The Messiah was not coming to overthrow Roman oppression; He was coming to be executed by both the Romans and the Jews.

The Scandal of the Cross

The method of Jesus’ execution—crucifixion—was the most degrading and torturous punishment the Roman Empire could inflict. The disciples, slow to understand, likely recoiled at the thought. Their silence in response to this prophecy suggests either disbelief or denial. Even after witnessing Jesus’ betrayal and crucifixion, they still failed to recall His promise of resurrection, scattering in despair rather than waiting in faith.

Yet, in this seemingly tragic series of events, God was accomplishing His redemptive purpose. Jesus was not a helpless victim but the willing sacrifice, enduring suffering so that those who believe in Him might receive eternal life.

The Resurrection: The Ultimate Hope

The disciples overlooked the final words of Jesus’ prophecy: “He will be raised on the third day.” This was not mere symbolism but the cornerstone of Christian hope. The resurrection vindicates Christ’s sacrifice, demonstrating His victory over sin and death. It is this reality that transforms our grief into joy, our despair into confidence.

Like the disciples, we may struggle to trust in God’s promises when trials come. Yet, through the resurrection, we are reminded that suffering is never the final word. Christ reigns, and His kingdom shall not be destroyed.

Let us, therefore, live in the light of the risen Christ, trusting in His purposes, even when the path involves suffering and sacrifice.