The message of a colt

Luke 19:28-35

 

 

Introduction: The Lord uses many illustrations and opportunities to speak to us. In our message today we are going to look at the triumphal entry. As we celebrate it today we should know that with the Jews it begins the celebration of the Passover. Historically the Passover marked the anniversary of God’s redemption of the Hebrews from Egypts captivity. For you and I marks the beginning of the Lords last week upon this earth. This little donkey Jesus uses to ride in on is very significant in several ways but this morning I want us to look and the “message of a colt” as it applies to the Christian. Notice with me…

 

         I.      The colt was redeemed (19:29-30)

According to -  (Exo 13:13)  And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck: and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou redeem.

 

The Lord redeemed for Himself this colt being the Lamb of God and knowing that in a few short days He would also be redeeming for Himself all mankind.

 

It is important for you and I to know that a donkey is an animal of peace in the Bible. While kings, rulers and warriors rode in on their horse drawn chariots our Lord and Savior rode in on an animal of peace. It is through Jesus that we have peace in times of trouble, difficulty and turmoil. It is through Jesus we have peace with our salvation and service.

 

       II.      The colt was released (19:33-34)

We also see the colt tied to post, this colt had life but not liberty. It was the Lord who requested this animal be untied and when not if they were asked just tell them I have need of it, Jesus said.

 

Just like that colt without Jesus we may have a life but we can never experience liberty. It is only through the Lord visiting us and calling us that we have liberty from the bondage of sin.

 

      III.      The colt was ruled

This newly redeemed and released animal was not let go to just take off and kick up his heels, living any way it chose. It was brought under the authority of the Lord Himself. For His use and service, the disciples placed their coats upon its back making a saddle for the Lord to sit upon. From there the colt’s function was to lift up the Lord and present Him to His people, high and lifted up.

 

Just like that colt you and I are redeemed and released to be ruled by the Lord. That may not be popular preaching today but it sure is true preaching today. Our salvation is not a license to live any way we want, it is a liberty to be entrusted to the Lord for His service.

 

Conclusion: This animal had a use and the Lord had it placed in its proper place, in its proper time for its proper use. You and I are no different. The Christian is redeemed by His blood, released by His mercy and ruled by His grace. If we are not willing to accommodate the Lords will for our life then we need to question our sincerity to His call for our salvation. Close as the Lord leads.