The Royal Road

Sermon Discussion Questions: March 29, 2026 The Royal Road Call to Worship: Psalm 118:19-29 1. What is the difference between the Psalmist's exclamation in verse 26, and the people's cry in Mark 11:9-10? 2. What claims of Jesus resonate with verse 20? How does this relate to the points in the sermon? Sermon: Mark 11:1-11 I. The Sovereign Preparation – Verses 1-6 1. Was it reasonable for the Jews of Jesus day to expect that the Messiah would kick out the occupying Romans? What messianic prophesies might have helped them understand that something other than a political/economic rescue had been foretold? 2. Life unfolds unexpectedly; that is more the rule than the exception. Share an event that unfolded in a completely unexpected fashion. a. In Scripture. b. In your life. Perhaps one that turned out better than expected. 3. If we accept this as a Biblical principle: We don't own anything, we are stewards. Share a way in which you used talents or possessions to glorify God and further his kingdom. II. Acknowledging the Messiah – Verses 7-8 4. Name some things that the world uses to establish identity, either ones Pastor Paul mentioned in the sermon, or others you have observed. Then state the Christian's basis for identity. 5. There was no such thing as “fast fashion” in the New Testament era. All clothing was handmade. What statement were people making when they threw down their cloaks? (verse 8). See 2 Kings 9:13. III. When God and Humanity Meet – Verse 9-11 6. Instead of turning to Jesus, to what sorts of “faux salvation” does the world turn? 7. If you experienced a crisis that helped you realize you could not draw comfort from possessions or worldly relationships, share your story. 8. State whether or not you believe there will be another literal temple during the end times. Support your answer with scripture. 9. Jesus' sacrifice differed from the temple animal sacrifices. a. What differences were mentioned in the sermon? b. What are some other differences? 10. What are differences between the relationship between people and God, and the relationship between two people? 11. Pastor Paul encouraged us, during Passion Week, to focus on our interaction with God instead of on the events. How do we do that? 12. AI Question: How does Jesus’ humility challenge the way I pursue influence or recognition? In Mark 11, Jesus enters Jerusalem not on a warhorse but on a young donkey—an intentional symbol of peace and humility. a. Where in my life am I tempted to seek status, applause, or control? b. What would it look like to adopt Jesus’ posture of quiet strength instead of self promotion? Prayer Points: • If God said, “The Lord has need of it”, what would be a struggle to give up? Pray for a willingness to give all to Him. • Pray that we would call our Hosanna to Jesus only and not look to other things to save us. • Praise Christ the King for who is and what we celebrate that he has done throughout the week.