Going up to Jerusalem

Going up to Jerusalem

The phrase "going up to Jerusalem" is a recurrent theme in the Bible, rich with spiritual, historical, and theological significance. This phrase is particularly noteworthy in the Gospels, where it often marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry. Let's explore the concept by examining its historical and theological context, as well as its implications for believers today.

1. Historical Context and Background

Jerusalem's Significance:Jerusalem was the religious and cultural heart of Israel. It housed the Temple, the center of Jewish worship, and was the site of many significant events in Israel's history, including King David's reign and the building of Solomon's Temple. Pilgrims from all over Israel and beyond would "go up" to Jerusalem, especially for major festivals like Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). The phrase "going up" is not just metaphorical; Jerusalem is geographically elevated, situated on a series of hills, and thus one would literally ascend to reach it.

Context in the Gospels:In the New Testament, particularly in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), the phrase "going up to Jerusalem" often signals the beginning of the Passion narrative—the final phase of Jesus' earthly ministry. For instance, in Matthew 20:17-19, Jesus predicts His suffering and death, saying, “We are going up to Jerusalem,” a statement heavy with foreknowledge of His impending crucifixion. This journey represents Jesus' purposeful movement towards fulfilling His mission of salvation.

2. Passage Analysis

Theological Context:The journey to Jerusalem is not just a physical movement but a deeply symbolic act. Jerusalem, as the city of God, represents the culmination of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus’ determination to go to Jerusalem, knowing the suffering that awaited Him, highlights His obedience to the Father’s will and His sacrificial love for humanity.

Liturgical and Practical Context:For early Christians, this journey would have been a powerful reminder of Jesus’ commitment to His mission and an invitation to follow Him in self-denial and service. In many Christian traditions, the concept of "going up to Jerusalem" is spiritually re-enacted during Lent, as believers journey toward the remembrance of Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection.

3. Text and Analysis Let's consider a few key verses where this phrase is used: Matthew 20:17-19 (ESV): "And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, '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.'"

Analysis: Jesus speaks directly about the fate awaiting Him in Jerusalem. The term "going up" here is laced with the gravity of His impending suffering. The Greek term used for "going up" is ἀναβαίνω (anabainō), which connotes both physical ascent and a purposeful, significant action.

Application: For believers today, this verse challenges us to embrace our own spiritual journeys with the same resolve that Jesus showed. Just as He faced suffering and death with courage and faith, we too are called to trust in God’s plan, even when it leads us into difficult circumstances (Romans 8:18).Luke 9:51 (ESV): "When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem."

Analysis: The phrase "set his face" indicates Jesus' resolute determination. It echoes the prophetic language of Isaiah 50:7, where the Suffering Servant declares, "I have set my face like a flint." This reflects Jesus' unwavering commitment to fulfilling His mission.

Application: In our spiritual walk, we are encouraged to set our faces "like flint" towards our heavenly Jerusalem, embodying the same steadfastness that Jesus did. This might mean persevering through trials or staying faithful to God’s calling, even when it is challenging (Hebrews 12:1-2).4. Preaching and Teaching Examples

Sermon Illustration:You could liken "going up to Jerusalem" to the life of a marathon runner. A marathon is not just about the physical challenge but about the mental fortitude to keep moving forward despite fatigue and pain. Similarly, our spiritual journey requires us to "press on" towards the goal, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and the eternal prize that awaits us (Philippians 3:13-14).

Key Themes: Obedience to God’s Will: Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem exemplifies complete obedience, even unto death. This can be a powerful theme for sermons on discipleship and the cost of following Christ.

Courage in the Face of Suffering: Jesus did not shy away from the suffering that awaited Him in Jerusalem. This courage can inspire believers to face their own trials with faith.5. Reference Scriptures Psalm 122:1: "I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord!'" This Psalm expresses the joy of going to Jerusalem for worship, contrasting with the somber tone of Jesus' journey but highlighting the significance of the city.Isaiah 2:3: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." This passage points to the future glory of Jerusalem and God’s teaching going forth from there.Acts 20:22-23: Paul mirrors Jesus' determination as he sets out for Jerusalem, knowing that "imprisonment and afflictions await" him. This shows the continuity of this theme of faithful perseverance among early Christian leaders.

6. Summary The phrase "going up to Jerusalem" is rich with meaning, representing not just a physical journey but a spiritual ascent toward the fulfillment of God’s plan. Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem is marked by obedience, courage, and a deep sense of purpose, serving as a model for our own spiritual journeys. By understanding this phrase in its historical, theological, and practical contexts, believers are encouraged to approach their own "Jerusalems" with faith and determination, trusting that God’s will is ultimately for our good and His glory. Reflecting on this, we are called to examine our own lives—are we willing to go up to our own Jerusalems, embracing the challenges and sacrifices that come with following Christ?