An Unwavering Purpose: How Jesus Walked in the Word (Matthew 21)

When Jesus entered His final week, every step He took was tethered to Scripture and aimed at the Father’s will. He wasn’t improvising; He was obeying. If you and I want an unwavering purpose, we need an unbroken connection to God’s Word—the same Word that shaped every moment of Jesus’ journey.

“All this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet…” (Matt. 21:4–5)

1) Unwavering purpose involves personal loss

Jesus knew Jerusalem meant suffering and death—and He went anyway (Matt. 20:17–19; 21:1–3). Purpose isn’t about comfort; it’s about obedience. Jesus rode a donkey not to be quaint, but to fulfill Zechariah’s prophecy. His simple formula can be ours:I know the Father’s will → therefore I choose it → whatever it costs.

Practice: Pray, “Father, if it’s Your will, I want it.” Then open your calendar and align one decision this week to the Word (not your preferences).

2) His purpose includes disciples—bring others with you

Jesus sends two disciples for the donkey and colt (21:2), and they quietly add their own cloaks for a saddle (21:7). That’s initiative shaped by Scripture. Your obedience is contagious—people around you will catch your spirit, whether stingy or surrendered.

Practice: Invite one person to obey with you this week (prayer night, serving, Scripture reading). Model first, then invite.

3) His purpose embraces the masses—but tests motives

The crowd shouts “Hosanna!” and spreads cloaks and branches (21:8–9). Many knew the prophecy; most still wanted a political rescue more than a spiritual King. When Jesus doesn’t perform the way we imagined, “Hosanna” can quickly become “Crucify.”Mature faith wants God’s will, not just God’s help.

4) “My house shall be called a house of prayer”

Jesus cleanses the temple (21:12–13). The result? “The blind and the lame came to Him in the temple, and He healed them” (21:14). Cleansing leads to usefulness. A praying church—and a praying Christian—become conduits for healing and gospel power.

Practice: Make your life a house of prayer. Set a daily time and a weekly gathered time to pray with others.

5) Leaves or fruit?

Jesus curses a leafy fig tree with no figs (21:18–19). It’s a living parable: God wants fruit, not just foliage. Spiritual activity isn’t the same as spiritual vitality.

Fruit check: Is your obedience producing love, joy, peace, patience… (Gal. 5:22–23)? If not, ask the Spirit to prune and restore.

6) Prayer that moves mountains

“If you have faith and do not doubt… whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive” (21:21–22). This isn’t a blank check for our wish list; it’s power to accomplish His will. When your life is aligned with Scripture, you’ll pray bolder—and see more.

How to Stay Connected to the Word (Simple Plan)

• Read: One Gospel passage daily; note what Jesus obeys.

• Reflect: “What does this reveal about the Father’s will?”

• Respond: Write one concrete obedience for today.

• Repeat with others: Share your “one obedience” in a text or group.

Reflection Questions

1. Where is God inviting you to choose obedience over comfort?

2. Who needs you to bring them along into obedience this week?

3. What temple-clearing (habits/attitudes) does the Spirit want to do in you so your life becomes a house of prayer?

4. Do you see fruit or just leaves? What needs pruning?

A Prayer to Close

Father, align my heart with Your Word. Make my life a house of prayer. Produce real fruit in me. Help me want Your will more than my comfort or applause. In Jesus’ name, amen.