19:28 And when he had thus spoken, {f} he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.
(f) The disciples were staggered and stopped by what Christ said, but Christ goes on boldly even though death was before his eyes.
19:28-40 Ascending up to Jerusalem. The ascent begins at Jericho, and about 3,000 feet has to be climbed before the city is reached. The account of the royal entrance into Jerusalem is given in Mt 21:1-16 Mr 11:1-11 Joh 12:12-19. See the notes on Matthew.
19:28-40 Christ has dominion over all creatures, and may use them as he pleases. He has all men's hearts both under his eye and in his hand. Christ's triumphs, and his disciples' joyful praises, vex proud Pharisees, who are enemies to him and to his kingdom. But Christ, as he despises the contempt of the proud, so he accepts the praises of the humble. Pharisees would silence the praises of Christ, but they cannot; for as God can out of stones raise up children unto Abraham, and turn the stony heart to himself, so he can bring praise out of the mouths of children. And what will be the feelings of men when the Lord returns in glory to judge the world!
