Summary of Matthew Chapter 21:

Matthew Chapter 21 contains key events from the final week of Jesus’ life and marks a turning point in His relationship with the religious authorities. Here’s a summary:

1. Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem (verses 1–11):
   Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9. The crowds welcome Him as the Messiah, shouting “Hosanna to the Son of David!”

2. Cleansing of the Temple (verses 12–17):
   Jesus drives out money changers and merchants from the temple, declaring it should be a house of prayer, not a den of thieves. He also heals the blind and lame there, and children praise Him.

3. Cursing of the Fig Tree (verses 18–22):
   Jesus curses a barren fig tree, which immediately withers, symbolizing judgment on spiritual barrenness. He teaches the disciples about faith and the power of prayer.

4. Questioning of Jesus’ Authority (verses 23–27):
   Religious leaders challenge Jesus’ authority. He counters by asking them about John the Baptist’s authority, exposing their unwillingness to take a stance.

5. Parable of the Two Sons (verses 28–32):
   Jesus tells a parable about two sons asked to work in a vineyard. One refuses but later obeys; the other agrees but does nothing. Jesus uses this to show that repentant sinners will enter God’s kingdom ahead of self-righteous leaders.

6. Parable of the Tenants (verses 33–46):
   Jesus tells a parable about wicked tenants who kill the landowner’s son. The parable symbolizes the rejection of God’s messengers and ultimately Jesus Himself. He warns that the kingdom will be given to others who bear fruit. The religious leaders realize the parable is about them and begin plotting against Him.

This chapter highlights Jesus’ messianic identity, His authority, His confrontation with religious hypocrisy, and the coming judgment on those who reject Him.