"The Golden Gate"

“The Golden Gate”

When we hear of the Golden Gate we immediately think of the opening from the Pacific Ocean into the San Pablo Bay to the north and the San Francisco Bay to the south which is spanned by the famous bridge. But when Karen and I (along with 29 other Christian friends) visited Jerusalem we learned of the original Golden Gate, also called the Eastern or Mercy Gate, the most well-known of the nine entrances spread around the city. What makes this gate so significant?

The Jewish Temple faced east so the Eastern Gate was the nearest to the House of God. The present gate was built over the remains of previous ones from the times of Solomon, Nehemiah and Herod. The Jewish people (and we Christians as well) believe from prophecy that the Messiah will enter Jerusalem through the Eastern Gate. In order to “prevent” this from happening Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent sealed it for “defensive reasons” in 1541 and it is believed that a Muslim cemetery in front of the closed entrance will keep the Messiah from using it. But will this thwart the purposes of God? “The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them.” (Psalm 2:4).

From the Mount of Olives we walked the path Jesus took for His Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. There are two gates on the eastern side of the city: the Golden (Eastern) Gate and the Lion Gate. The Jews and Muslims are in agreement (how about that?) that Jesus went through the Dung Gate on the south, but His route from the Mount of Olives leads directly to the Eastern Gate. Did He use the gate reserved for the Messiah? As several of us discussed this we came to the conclusion that He did and was thus claiming to be the Messiah!

All four gospels record this incident indicating its importance. In Matthew’s rendering we’re told the people cried out, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matthew 21:9). Some were astounded and asked, “Who is this?” This could be understood as, “Who does He think He is?” which supports our contention that He’d gone through the Eastern Gate. When the religious leaders called on Him to rebuke those who were honoring Him He answered, “…If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” (Luke 19:40). From here the conflict with the religious leaders grew and ended with His crucifixion and resurrection so our sins could be forgiven. (See 1 Corinthians 15:3-4.)

So the next time you hear “Golden Gate” think Jesus, not a bridge.

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan