King James Version
What Does Matthew 21:4 Mean?
“All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying,”
Context
2
Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me.
3
And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them.
4
All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying,
5
Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.
6
And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **All** **this was done.**—The Evangelist returns to the formula of Matthew 1:22. Literally, *all this has come to pass.* The words are his comment on the act. At the time (as we find from John 12:16) the disciples did not understand its significance as connected with the prophecy that follows. The purpose lay in the mind of their Master, not in theirs. It is significant of what St. John records that neither St. Mark nor St. Luke alludes to the prophecy.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 21:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 21:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge