"The Triumph of Humility: Jesus Enters Jerusalem"

The Arrival

Matthew 21:1–11 “When they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage at the Mount of Olives, Jesus then sent two disciples, telling them, “Go into the village ahead of you. At once you will find a donkey tied there, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to Me. If anyone says anything to you, you should say that the Lord needs them, and immediately he will send them.” This took place so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled: Tell Daughter Zion, “Look, your King is coming to you, gentle, and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.” The disciples went and did just as Jesus directed them. They brought the donkey and the colt; then they laid their robes on them, and He sat on them. A very large crowd spread their robes on the road; others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them on the road. Then the crowds who went ahead of Him and those who followed kept shouting: Hosanna to the Son of David! He who comes in the name of the Lord is…”

Imagine it is prom and you are picking up your date. The car you have is on its last leg and you pray that it will get you there. It may not be the best car in the world but it is what you have. Next lets say another guy arrives to pick up the same girl riding in a limo. What does this say about you?

Introduction

Foundational Elements

Sermon Title: "The Triumph of Humility: Jesus Enters Jerusalem"Text of Sermon: Matthew 21:1-11Subject: Triumphal EntryCentral Idea of the Text (CIT): Jesus demonstrated His messianic kingship through a humble entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecy.Proposition: Jesus reveals His kingship not through earthly power, but through humility and fulfillment of God's Word.Objective: Hearers will recognize the importance of humility and obedience to God's will as demonstrated by Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.Main Point of the Sermon (MPS): Understanding Jesus' humble approach to His kingship helps us embrace our roles as followers of Christ, focusing on humility and obedience.

Begin with a vivid description of a king's entry into a city, contrasting worldly expectations of pomp and power with the scene of Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey. This moment, celebrated as Palm Sunday, sets the stage for understanding the nature of Jesus' kingship and the kingdom of God. Introduce the subject by emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy and the significance of Jesus choosing humility over might.

History behind Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday is so named because of the event recounted in the Gospels where Jesus enters Jerusalem, and the crowds spread palm branches on the road before Him. This act of spreading palm branches was a significant gesture, symbolizing victory, triumph, and peace. Palms were known symbols in the ancient world for victory and were often used to welcome heroes or kings. The people welcoming Jesus into Jerusalem were acknowledging Him as their awaited Messiah, hoping He would usher in a new era of freedom and peace, liberating them from Roman rule. The Gospel accounts describe how the crowd cut branches from the trees and spread them in Jesus' path as He rode into the city on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9 about a king coming to Jerusalem in humility. This imagery of the humble king and the victorious symbolism of the palm branches create a poignant contrast that captures the essence of Jesus' mission and the nature of His kingdom. Unlike earthly kings who might enter a city in military might and opulence, Jesus enters in humility, embodying peace and servant leadership. Thus, Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, the final week of Lent, leading up to Easter Sunday. It commemorates Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, an event celebrated in Christian churches worldwide with processions and the distribution of palm branches to congregants, symbolizing the palms laid before Jesus over 2,000 years ago. This day invites reflection on the paradoxical nature of Jesus' kingship and the inauguration of a kingdom characterized by love, humility, and peace.

As Baptists, like many other Christian denominations, celebrate Palm Sunday to commemorate the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, marking the beginning of Holy Week. This celebration holds deep theological significance and serves multiple purposes in the Baptist tradition and broader Christian observance:

Reflection on Scriptural Fulfillment

Palm Sunday offers an opportunity to reflect on the fulfillment of prophecy, specifically Zechariah 9:9, which speaks of a king coming to Jerusalem humble and riding on a donkey. This moment is a poignant reminder of God’s faithfulness and the intricate fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

Preparation for Easter

For Baptists, Palm Sunday initiates Holy Week, a sacred period leading up to Easter Sunday, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. This week is a time of deep reflection, prayer, and preparation, allowing believers to ponder the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice and the profound implications of His death and resurrection for humanity.

Emphasis on Humble Servant Leadership

The nature of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem—on a donkey, accompanied by the spreading of palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna"—symbolizes peace and humility, contrasting with the worldly notions of kingship and power. This event underscores the Christian call to humility and servant leadership, principles that are central to Baptist teaching and practice.

Recognition of Jesus as Messiah

Celebrating Palm Sunday reinforces the acknowledgment of Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of David, who comes in the name of the Lord. It's a day to express joy and gratitude for the salvation and kingship of Jesus, echoing the cries of "Hosanna" from the Jerusalem crowds, which means "save, we pray."

Community and Worship

Palm Sunday services often involve the distribution of palm branches to congregants, re-enacting the biblical account and fostering a sense of community and shared faith. This tradition provides a tangible connection to the historical event, enriching the worship experience and deepening the communal observance of Jesus’ passion.

Evangelical Witness

The public celebration of Palm Sunday, through processions or other acts of worship, serves as a witness to the faith and a proclamation of the gospel message. It's an opportunity for Baptists to share the story of Jesus with others, highlighting His humility, His role as Savior, and the hope of Easter.

In summary, for Baptists, Palm Sunday is not just a historical commemoration but a deeply meaningful part of Christian faith and practice. It sets the tone for Holy Week, encourages reflection on the Christian mission and Jesus' sacrificial love, and strengthens the communal and evangelical aspects of Baptist identity.

Transition to body: "As we delve into the scripture, let us explore the profound lessons from Jesus' entry, guiding us on the path of humility and submission to God's will."

. The Fulfillment of Prophecy

We have to start with Zechariah 9:9 “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout in triumph, Daughter Jerusalem! Look, your King is coming to you; He is righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”

Look at Matthew 21:9–11 “Then the crowds who went ahead of Him and those who followed kept shouting: Hosanna to the Son of David! He who comes in the name of the Lord is the blessed One! Hosanna in the highest heaven! When He entered Jerusalem, the whole city was shaken, saying, “Who is this?” And the crowds kept saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee!””

Hosanna is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew word hoshi ah na which means save us, we pray

Discuss the symbolism of the donkey in ancient Near Eastern culture as a sign of peace, contrasting with a horse, a symbol of war.

Symbolism of the Donkey

Peace and Humility: The donkey is traditionally seen as a symbol of peace and humility. In ancient times, when a king or leader rode upon a donkey, it was often a sign that they came in peace. The donkey's modest stature and demeanor, compared to that of horses, underscore a sense of approachability and gentleness, qualities associated with peaceful intentions.

Servanthood and Burden Bearing: Donkeys are known for their ability to carry heavy loads and serve diligently. This characteristic made them emblematic of servitude and the willingness to bear burdens for others. Leaders riding donkeys symbolized their commitment to serving their people and carrying the burdens of leadership with humility.

Fulfillment of Prophecy: Specifically, in the context of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, the choice of a donkey instead of a horse fulfilled the ancient prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which predicted that the king of Zion would arrive "righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey." This act was a deliberate message from Jesus about the nature of His kingship and mission, contrasting sharply with contemporary expectations of a messiah who would overthrow Roman rule through military might.

Symbolism of the Horse

War and Power: In stark contrast, the horse in ancient Near Eastern culture symbolized war, power, and conquest. Horses were associated with chariots and cavalry, key components of military might in the ancient world. A leader or king riding a horse was often preparing for or returning from battle, signaling strength, aggression, and dominion.

Nobility and Status: Beyond their military significance, horses were also symbols of nobility, wealth, and high status. Owning horses, especially those bred for war, was a luxury afforded by the elite, further emphasizing the social gap between rulers and the ruled.

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less." — C.S. Lewis

"True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less." — Rick Warren

Transition: "Understanding the fulfillment of prophecy and its implications leads us to recognize the nature of Jesus' kingship."

The Nature of Jesus' Kingship

Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, as depicted in the Gospels, serves as a profound act of symbolic defiance against the conventional expectations of power and authority prevalent in His time. Riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, Jesus upends traditional notions of kingship, emphasizing service, humility, and love over dominance, force, and political power. This event is not an isolated incident but is emblematic of the consistent message and methodology of Jesus' entire ministry. Challenging Common Perceptions of Power and Authority Jesus' mode of entry into Jerusalem directly challenges the prevailing perceptions of power and authority in several ways: Contrast with Secular Kingship: In an era where rulers showcased their power through displays of wealth, military might, and subjugation, Jesus chose a lowly donkey for His entry. This starkly contrasts with a conquering hero who might enter a city on a warhorse to signify victory and domination. Jesus' choice symbolizes a different kind of kingship—one based on peace, humility, and accessibility, rather than fear and coercion. Rejection of Earthly Power: By choosing a humble entry, Jesus rejected the trappings of earthly power. This act was a clear message that His kingdom was not of this world—a kingdom where authority comes from serving others, not in being served. This inversion of power dynamics was radical, suggesting that true strength lies in vulnerability and service rather than in force or domination. Consistency with Jesus' Teachings and Actions Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently emphasized themes of humility, service, and love, which were all epitomized in His entry into Jerusalem: Sermon on the Mount: Jesus' teachings, such as the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12), celebrate the meek, the peacemakers, and those who hunger for righteousness—values diametrically opposed to the conventional pursuit of power and status. Foot Washing (John 13:1-17): Jesus washing the feet of His disciples is a vivid act of humility and service, showcasing His commitment to these values. He explicitly states, "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." Calls to Servant Leadership: Jesus often spoke directly against the worldly desire for dominion over others, teaching instead that "the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves" (Luke 22:26). Varied Reactions to Jesus' Kingship The reactions of different groups to Jesus' entry into Jerusalem illustrate the diverse expectations and understandings of His kingship: Disciples: The disciples, who had been with Jesus throughout His ministry, were participants in this act, fetching the donkey as instructed. Their actions demonstrate a degree of obedience and trust, yet the Gospels also hint at their ongoing struggle to fully comprehend Jesus' messianic mission and the nature of His kingdom. The Crowd: Shouting "Hosanna!" the crowd seems to recognize Jesus as a messianic figure, yet their expectations were likely aligned with a traditional liberator who would overthrow Roman rule. This illustrates a common misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, expecting earthly deliverance rather than spiritual salvation. The City of Jerusalem: The city's reaction, one of being "stirred" and asking, "Who is this?" (Matthew 21:10), indicates a mix of curiosity, confusion, and perhaps apprehension. This response reflects the broader societal uncertainty about Jesus' identity and the implications of His teachings and actions. In sum, Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, framed by His teachings and actions throughout His ministry, presents a radical critique of traditional notions of power and authority. By embodying service, humility, and love, Jesus invites a reevaluation of what it means to lead and to rule, challenging His followers to embrace these values in contrast to the world's. The varied reactions to His entry reflect the transformative and often challenging nature of His message, highlighting the tension between divine and worldly understandings of kingship.

Are you in the crowd, are you trying to get close , do you cry out Hosanna, do you turn your back and cry crucify him just a few days later.? Transition: "Jesus' kingship, characterized by humility and service, calls us into a response. What does this mean for us today?"

Application to Believers' Lives

1.Encourage personal reflection on areas where pride and the desire for control hinder a fully surrendered life to God.

In the journey of faith, moments of personal reflection are essential for growth and deeper communion with God. Among the many barriers to a fully surrendered life to God, pride and the desire for control often stand prominent. These challenges are not new; they are as old as humanity itself, yet they continue to confront us in our daily walk with the Lord. Reflecting on these areas can be the first step toward overcoming them.

Reflecting on Pride

Pride can manifest in subtle ways—through our achievements, our status, or even our spiritual life. It can lead us to place our confidence and identity in what we do, rather than in who we are in Christ. A prideful heart may struggle to accept God’s grace, seeing itself as self-sufficient or above the need for divine assistance and community support.

Consider:

In what areas of your life do you find it hardest to seek or accept help?Are there moments when you feel superior to others because of your accomplishments, knowledge, or spiritual practices?How can you cultivate a heart of humility, recognizing that every gift and success comes from God?

Reflecting on the Desire for Control

The desire for control is deeply rooted in our human nature. It's a desire to shape our lives and environments according to our plans, often leaving little room for God's intervention or guidance. This need for control can stem from fear, uncertainty, or a lack of trust in God’s providence and timing.

Consider:

Are there specific aspects of your life (career, relationships, future plans) where you struggle to trust God’s plan?How does this desire for control affect your peace and your relationship with God and others?What steps can you take to relinquish control, trusting that God’s ways are higher than your ways?

Moving Forward

Recognizing the areas where pride and the desire for control hinder our relationship with God is the first step towards transformation. The next step is to actively seek change, relying on God’s strength and guidance. This can involve practical steps such as:

Practicing gratitude: Regularly acknowledging and thanking God for His blessings in your life can combat pride by reminding you of your dependence on Him.Engaging in service: Serving others, especially in capacities that challenge your pride or require relinquishing control, can be a powerful way to cultivate humility.Spending time in prayer and the Word: Deepening your relationship with God through prayer and Scripture can help realign your desires with His, increasing your trust in His plans.Seeking accountability: Sharing your struggles with trusted friends or mentors can provide support and encouragement as you seek to live a more surrendered life.

A fully surrendered life to God is marked by humility and trust. It’s a life that recognizes God's sovereignty and grace, embracing the freedom and peace that come from living within His will. As you reflect on pride and the desire for control, may you find the courage and grace to surrender more fully to God, experiencing the joy and fulfillment of walking in His ways.

2.Offer practical ways to cultivate humility through service, community involvement, and embracing God's will, even when it contradicts personal desires or societal expectations.

Cultivating humility in our lives is a journey that requires intentionality and practice, especially in a world that often values individual achievement and power over selfless service and community. Here are practical ways to nurture humility through service, community involvement, and by embracing God's will, even when it stands in contrast to personal desires or societal norms:

Volunteer Regularly in Your Community: Engage in regular volunteer work that puts you in service of others, especially those in vulnerable situations. Whether it's helping at a food bank, tutoring children in underprivileged areas, or visiting the elderly in nursing homes, these acts of service can shift your focus from self to serving others, fostering humility.

Participate in Community Clean-Up Projects: Join or organize local clean-up projects in parks, beaches, or neighborhoods. These activities not only contribute to the wellbeing of your community but also instill a sense of stewardship for the environment and a humility in working together for a common good.

Practice Active Listening: In conversations, practice active listening more than speaking. This allows you to value others' perspectives and experiences, fostering empathy and reducing the focus on oneself.

Seek Opportunities for Anonymity in Service: Engage in acts of service without the expectation of recognition or reward. Doing good deeds anonymously helps cultivate a spirit of humility, as the focus remains on the act of giving rather than on the giver.

Join or Form a Support Group: Participate in or help organize support groups within your community or church. These groups can provide support for those going through difficult times, creating a space where vulnerability is shared and humility is nurtured through mutual support and understanding.

Embrace Teachable Moments: Be open to learning from everyone and every situation, including those significantly younger or less experienced. Acknowledging that everyone has something to teach us encourages humility and lifelong learning.

Challenge Personal Desires: Deliberately challenge your wants and comforts for the sake of others. This might mean sacrificing personal time, resources, or preferences to help someone in need or to support a community initiative.

Fast and Pray: Engage in fasting and prayer to seek God's will, especially when facing decisions that impact your life direction. Fasting is a physical expression of humility and reliance on God, reminding us that our strength and guidance come from Him.

Mentorship and Discipleship: Either as a mentor or being mentored, engage in relationships that encourage spiritual and personal growth. These relationships can challenge us to live beyond our comfort zones, embracing God's will even when it diverges from our own paths.

Reflection and Self-Assessment: Regularly spend time in reflection, assessing ways in which pride may be influencing your decisions and interactions. Seek feedback from trusted friends or mentors to gain insights into areas of your life where humility can grow.

By integrating these practices into our daily lives, we not only cultivate humility but also create ripples of positive impact within our communities, embodying the selfless love and service that Jesus demonstrated throughout His ministry.

3.Share stories of individuals or communities who exemplify humility and obedience, drawing parallels to Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.

The Amish Community: Living Simply and Humbly

The Amish community offers a contemporary example of humility through their simple living, community orientation, and resistance to modern conveniences. In a world increasingly driven by technology and individualism, the Amish dedication to a lifestyle of simplicity and manual labor stands as a counter-cultural testimony to the value of humility and communal interdependence. Their approach to life, characterized by strong community bonds, stewardship of the land, and a focus on faith and family, echoes the principles of service and humility exemplified by Jesus during His time on earth, including His humble entry into Jerusalem.

Fred Rogers: Kindness and Humility in Public Broadcasting

Fred Rogers, known to many as Mister Rogers, used his television show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" to teach children about love, kindness, and the importance of caring for one another. His gentle demeanor and simple lifestyle were embodiments of the humility he preached. Rogers approached each person with the belief that everyone is special and deserving of love, mirroring the respect and kindness Jesus showed to all. His legacy of compassion and understanding in a medium often criticized for its lack of depth showcases how humility and genuine concern for others can leave a lasting impact on society.

Nelson Mandela: Reconciliation over Retribution

Nelson Mandela's long walk to freedom is a testament to the power of humility in the face of oppression. After spending 27 years in prison for his stand against apartheid in South Africa, Mandela emerged not with a heart set on vengeance but on reconciliation. His leadership as the first Black president of South Africa was marked by efforts to heal a nation divided by decades of racial injustice. Like Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, Mandela's journey from prisoner to president exemplifies the strength of peaceful endurance over force, the power of forgiveness, and the impact of humility in leadership. Mandela's legacy teaches the world that true authority comes through service and reconciliation, not domination.

Transition to conclusion: "As we've journeyed from prophecy to application, the message of Palm Sunday transcends time, inviting us into a deeper walk with Christ."

Conclusion

In revisiting the profound image of Jesus entering Jerusalem, we find not the expected conquering hero atop a majestic warhorse, but a humble servant on a simple donkey. This moment, rich in symbolic depth, overturns our worldly notions of power and leadership, presenting us instead with a vision of kingship rooted in humility, service, and sacrificial love. It's a poignant reminder that true greatness in the kingdom of God is measured not by dominion and power, but by the willingness to serve and uplift others. This Palm Sunday, let us reflect deeply on the call to model our lives after Jesus, to embrace humility and obedience as the cornerstones of our faith. We are invited to identify and live out our own 'entry into Jerusalem' moments—opportunities where we can embody Christ-like humility, showing love and compassion in our interactions with others, and prioritizing the needs of the community over our ambitions and desires.

Let us close with a prayer: Heavenly Father, in the spirit of Jesus' humble entry into Jerusalem, we ask for the grace to follow His exemplary path of service and love. Grant us the strength to embrace humility, to act justly, and to serve with kindness. Help us to see beyond the fleeting allure of worldly power, and inspire us to live in obedience to Your will, dedicating our lives to the service of others in love. May our hearts reflect the humility of Christ, as we seek to fulfill Your will in all that we do, living out our faith with genuineness and compassion. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.