Scripture: Matthew 20:29-34; Matthew 21:1-11
Intro: Today marks Palm Sunday, the start of Passion Week, commemorating Jesus' Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem. Recorded in all four Gospels, this event shows Jesus finally receiving public acclaim, with crowds shouting "Hosanna!" Yet, this recognition is built on expectations He ultimately subverts. We see the beginning of the week that culminates in the cross and resurrection, revealing the complex nature of our King.
Key Points:
- The Hero Stops for Beggars (Matt 20:29-34): On His way to Jerusalem, facing the immense task of the cross, Jesus hears two blind men cry out, "Son of David, have mercy!" The crowd tries to silence them, but Jesus stops. He doesn't just heal them; He asks, "What do you want me to do for you?" This reveals His character: accessible, compassionate, and attentive to the marginalized even amidst His ultimate mission.
- The Hero Rides a Borrowed Donkey (Matt 21:1-11): Jesus intentionally fulfills Zechariah 9:9, entering Jerusalem not on a warhorse symbolizing power, but humbly on a borrowed donkey colt, an animal of peace and burden-bearing. This declares His kingship, but defines it as lowly, servant-hearted royalty, contrasting sharply with the crowd's expectations.
- The Hero Confronts Expectations (Palms vs. Donkey): The crowd waves palm branches (a symbol tied to past military victory, like the Maccabean revolt) and shouts "Hosanna" (Save now!), anticipating a political Messiah to overthrow Rome. Jesus' choice of the donkey signals a different mission: conquering sin and death, not earthly oppressors. This clash between their desired Jesus and the real Jesus explains their later turn ("Crucify him!"). He addresses the root issue (sin), not just the symptom (Rome).
Conclusion: Palm Sunday reveals a King who stops for the needy, embraces humility even in His royalty (riding a borrowed donkey), and consistently defies worldly expectations. He is the "Son of David," but His path to salvation involves the cross, not military might. Like the crowds, we often want a Jesus who fits our agenda, solves our perceived problems, but He focuses on the deeper realities of sin and redemption His way.
Call to Action: When the Jesus you encounter doesn't meet your expectations:
- Expect It: Recognize His ways and thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55). Don't be surprised when He operates differently than you anticipate.
- Decide Who He Is: Is Jesus truly God to be worshipped and obeyed, or merely a consultant, vending machine, or good luck charm defined by your desires? Settle in your heart that He is Lord.
- Trust the Process: Remember the cross – seeming defeat became ultimate victory. Trust His wisdom even when you don't understand. Trust the humble King on the donkey, knowing His plan leads to true life.
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The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus & The Donkey (Matthew 20:29 - 21:11)
with Travis Aicklen
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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