Holy Monday

Today—to kick things off—we’re going to get in touch with some the historical background of Holy Week. (And all the prophets, nerds, academics and empirical thinkers of the world rejoiced.)

Justin Taylor, who is a frequent contributor to the Gospel Coalition website, posted a helpful “Who,” What," and “Where” of Holy Week earlier today. It can be accessed here. Some things to notice:

• Bible Gateway has made a visualization of all the events of Holy Week, which is exceptionally rich. It includes scripture references from the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke) and also the relationships between all of the people involved in the narratives (when they were together/apart, when the ‘crowd’ or ‘religious leaders’ make entrances and exits, etc.). Neat-o.
• Google Map of the proposed area in which Jesus walked during his last days. Pretty cool to see it live and in color.

What about Holy Monday specifically? Taylor also posted a chronological breakdown of the events of Holy Monday by harmonizing the gospels to the best of his ability (with the help of the ESV Study Bible). You can access this by clicking here.

These are great resources and helpful facts, but it wouldn’t be a great idea to leave things at that. We know that knowledge—apart from the humility and love of the gospel—puffs up (1 Corinthians 8:1). So how can we be built up this Holy Monday?

In their observation of this day, the Roman Catholic church traditionally pairs the accounts of Jesus Cursing the Fig Tree and Jesus Clearing the Temple with readings of Isaiah 42:1-7 and Psalm 27:1-3 & 13-14. Let’s focus on Psalm 27:1-3 for a moment:

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When evildoers assail me to eat up my flesh, my adversaries and foes, it is they who stumble and fall. Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear, though war arise against me, yet I will be confident.

—Psalm 27:1-3

How does this connect? Providentially enough, this coincides with what Harvey preached on Palm Sunday. During his life, Jesus knew exactly what he was doing. He came to draw a line in the sand. In many ways, he didn’t come to bring peace, but a sword. With every healing, every sermon, every moment his enemies came closer to assail. Can’t help but wonder if texts like Psalm 27 rung through his head as he brought them to life. 

Behold your savior this Holy Monday. He endured the utmost hostility for our sake. He allowed the enemy to assail him. And he became our victor. Let Jesus’ confidence give you courage. The same God who cleansed the temple has made you his temple… and he shares his victory with you.