The Triumphal entry is one of the most fascinating events in the life of Jesus, but it is one of those events that does not give up its treasures to halfhearted readers. However, when you spend time with it, it will reward you. This is why I was honored to preach this Palm Sunday morning. When Jesus rides into Jerusalem, it is the first time he allows the people to praise him as king. However, what the people thought they were doing and what Jesus was actually doing were radically different. This event is full of significance, and once we understand it, when we hear the words of the prophecy, “Behold, your king is coming to you,” it should cause our hearts to sing.
Below is the sermon. My prayer is by the end, your heart will be rejoicing.
You can also listen to the audio on Spotify.
Below are a few discussions questions.
- What were the peoples’ expectations of Jesus when they praised him as king? What are some of the things they did as he rode in that speak to those expectations? What did the palm branches mean?
- What caused the Jewish people to go from praising Jesus to shouting “crucify him” in less than a week? Why would they choose Barabbas over Jesus?
- What false expectations of Jesus do we see in contemporary Christianity? What false expectations do we see in ourselves, and how do they affect us emotionally?
- Jesus was not pushed along by a political fervor as he rode into Jerusalem; he orchestrated it to set his death in motion. Read Acts 4:27-28. How does this minister to you?
- What is the significance of Jesus riding on a donkey instead of a horse?
- Passover was on Thursday, the 14th day of the month; this means Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the 10th day of the month of Passover. Read Exodus 12:3-6. What is the significance of the 10th day of the month concerning Passover? What are the parallels between the Passover lamb and Jesus?
- Jesus knew he was riding to his death, and nothing could hinder him. What do you think motivated him, and how does that minister to you?
The Fight of Faith 