1) Listen to Podcast
2)GG Questions
04/05/2020
Palm Sunday: Hopes and Expectations
Luke 19:28-44
1. Hosanna: The crowds shouted, “Hosanna!” as Jesus entered Jerusalem, meaning, ‘Save us!’ What did they hope Jesus would save them from (Luke 19:11)? While such a deliverance will be accomplished some day (Dan. 2:31-35, 44-45), what deliverance must be performed first (Matt. 1:21)? What are you hoping for right now in the midst of this chaos? What does it mean to shift one’s hope from a desired outcome to a Person?
2. Can’t follow while leading: Early in Jesus’ ministry, after feeding the five thousand, the crowd “was about to come and take him by force to make him king,” but Jesus didn’t let them (John 6:15). Now, at the triumphal entry, many in the cheering crowd thought they were finally getting what they wanted. Do you know what it’s like to attempt to follow God on your terms? Has God ever had to shift your focus from your short-term desires to His long-term plans?
3. King rides a donkey: The context of Jesus’ fulfilled prophecy about mounting a donkey does speak to national deliverance (Zech. 9:9-10), but, at his first coming, Jesus was intent to teach the upside-down kingdom principle of humility. This characteristic was perfectly exemplified in the King (Mark 10:45; Phil. 2:5-11), and should be reflected in His subjects too (Matt. 5:5; John 13:14-15; Phil. 2:3). Why is it hardest to be humble and other-centered in chaotic, troubling times? What are you doing to keep from an ‘always look out for #1’ mentality?
4. Israel’s Tragedy: The Triumphal Entry was a kind of last chance presentation of the King to Israel – it didn’t go well for Israel… Jesus wept over their hardness of heart (Matt. 23:37-39; Luke 19:41-44), overturned the tables of their false worship (Luke 19:45-46), and temporarily revoked their privilege as a kingdom of priests (Matt. 21:33, 43). Are you ready for Jesus’ coming? More important than a closet full of toilet paper, how does a readiness to meet your Maker give you confidence to meet any of life’s challenges?
