Untitled Sermon

The Triumphal Entry: Our King Has Come!

Bible Passage: Jn 12:12–19

Text: John 1:29 (NKJV)

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!

Summary: In this passage, we witness Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, a moment filled with prophetic fulfillment and public acclaim as He is hailed as King. The crowds celebrate His arrival, laying down palm branches and shouting praises, showcasing their hopes for a Messiah who can deliver them.

Application: This sermon reminds Christians that just as the crowds welcomed Jesus into their midst, we too are called to receive Him wholeheartedly into our lives. It challenges us to reflect on our expectations of Jesus—do we see Him as our true King and Savior, capable of bringing hope and change, or merely as a facilitator of our desires?

Teaching: The sermon teaches that Jesus is not only the King riding into Jerusalem but also the King who calls us to recognize His authority over our lives. The contrasts of the crowd's expectations versus the impending suffering of Jesus should prompt us to understand the depth of His mission and the nature of true kingship.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage foreshadows the fulfillment of Jesus as the Messiah, the King who comes to save, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy (Zechariah 9:9). It places Him amidst the larger narrative of God's redemptive plan, illustrating the tension of His kingship—celebrated by the people yet leading to the cross.

Big Idea: The big idea communicates that Jesus is the awaited King who enters our lives with authority, inviting us to respond with authentic worship and genuine commitment, challenging our views of what it means to follow Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon using your Logos library, consider examining the historical and cultural context of the Triumphal Entry, particularly how Roman authority may have influenced the expectations of the crowds. Additionally, conduct an exegetical study on Zechariah 9:9 to explore how Jesus fulfilled this prophecy. Pay close attention to any translation nuances in John 12:13 regarding the phrases used by the crowd and their implications for understanding their expectations of a political versus spiritual Savior.

1. Celebrate Christ's Coming

Jn 12:12-13

You could highlight how the actions of the crowd reflect our need to welcome Jesus' kingship with joy and reverence. The palms and praises signify worship, a powerful reminder for us to publicly and boldly honor Christ as King in our lives. This celebration invites us to dust off our reluctance and embrace a worshipful lifestyle, manifesting our allegiance to Jesus.

2. Consider the Humble King

Jn 12:14-15

Perhaps explore the significance of Jesus riding on a donkey as a message of peace, humility, and fulfillment of prophecy. This sermon point could help believers see Jesus’ gentleness and encourage them to approach Him with both reverence and trust, understanding that His authority comes with compassion and peace. This reflection challenges us to reshape our perceptions of power and authority in our spiritual walk.

3. Contemplate the Unseen Mission

Jn 12:16

Maybe emphasize the disciples' misunderstanding, highlighting our need for spiritual insight to fully grasp Jesus’ mission and His words. This point encourages us to seek understanding and clarity through prayer and study, asking God to open our eyes to the reality of Christ’s work in our lives. It challenges our limited perceptions of Jesus’ purpose and empowers us to grow deeper in faith.

4. Convey Christ's Impact

Jn 12:17-19

Reflect on the witnessing power of the crowd who had seen Lazarus’ resurrection, and how their testimony spread the excitement. This point could encourage believers to testify about Christ’s work in their lives, sharing the transformative power of His presence. It serves as a call to action, mobilizing the church to testify and live out the impact of Jesus' resurrection power.