Have You Never Read?

Summary

Dominic Jackson explores how we understand and interpret the Bible by examining a passage from the Gospel of Matthew that recounts Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and his actions in the temple. Dominic shows that Jesus’ response in the temple was a deliberate act against corruption and the exploitation of the poor, not a random outburst of anger. He also highlights that the triumphal entry was more than a joyful celebration; it was a complex moment charged with messianic expectations and quiet rebellion.

Questions for reflection

• How does the historical and cultural context of this passage challenge or expand your previous understanding of these events?

• What other examples from the life and teachings of Jesus might reveal a similar tension between his actions and the expectations of the people?

• How can the approach of reading the scriptures "backwards" or in a non-chronological order be applied to other biblical narratives?

• What are some practical ways that we can cultivate an open and inquisitive mindset when engaging with the Bible, rather than relying on preconceived notions or rigid interpretations?

• How might Dominic's emphasis on the complexity and diversity of the biblical texts inform the way we approach theological differences and disagreements within the Christian tradition?