History of Human Government (14) - Messianic Expectations

In Jesus time, the people of Israel were still looking for a king in David’s line. The problem was that they did not understand David’s calling. He was a military commander raised up to lead the nation in battle against their enemies. This was temporary role only needed when the people had repented and opened up the way for God to throw of the shackles of their oppressors (see Judges 2:10-19).

In Jesus time, the people were oppressed by the Romans. They wanted a military leader to set them free, but they were still hardened against God, so a military leader could not free them from bondage. This is why Jesus came into Jerusalem riding on a donkey.

This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
"Say to the Daughter of Zion,
'See, your king comes to you,
gentle and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey'” (Matt 21:4,5).

Jesus was explaining that he had changed the ministry of David. He would not be a military leader, so he would not defend his people using military force. Rather he would defeat their enemies through the work of the Holy Spirit and proclamation of the gospel.

Gentleness was replacing military courage. Jesus would be a totally different king. His kingdom will not be established by military force, but through his death on the cross. Like David, Jesus would deliver his people, but he would do it in a different way.