Untitled Sermon (99)

The Lord have need of us.

The King's Call: How Does the Lord Need Us?

Bible Passage: Matthew 21:1–9

Summary: In Matthew 21:1-9, we witness Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where He instructs His disciples to retrieve a donkey. This passage highlights Jesus’ authority and His willingness to use humble means to accomplish His divine purpose, inviting us to consider how we can serve Him.

Application: This passage reminds Christians that God desires our participation in His kingdom work, no matter how small or humble that service may seem. It encourages us to respond to His call, understanding that our obedience can have significant implications in His overarching plan.

Teaching: The sermon could teach the importance of recognizing and responding to God's call in our lives. It emphasizes that God uses ordinary people and situations to fulfill His extraordinary purposes, encouraging the congregation to be open and available to Him.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage foreshadows Jesus' kingship and mission as the Messiah entering His city. It connects to the broader biblical narrative of God using humble beginnings and unexpected means to accomplish His purposes, ultimately leading to the salvation offered through Christ.

Big Idea: God desires our willingness to serve, no matter how seemingly insignificant, as part of His divine plan for redemption and restoration.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the cultural significance of the donkey in Jewish tradition and how it relates to the notion of kingship. The Logos Bible Software can provide insights into the historical context, including the fulfillment of prophecy linked to Jesus’ triumphal entry and how it reflects God’s use of humility and obedience to His will.

1. The King Directs

Matthew 21:1–3

You could explore how Jesus deliberately instructed his disciples to find a donkey, showcasing His foreknowledge and intention. This seemingly small task was crucial to fulfilling prophecy and displaying His kingship in a way that subverted worldly expectations. Emphasize that when God calls us to perform humble tasks, they have value beyond what we can see. Answering this call with obedience and readiness aligns us with His divine purposes.

2. Prophecy Proclaimed

Matthew 21:4–5

Perhaps highlight how Jesus' entry on a donkey fulfilled the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, which emphasizes humility and peace—a contrast to earthly kings who project power through military force. This encourages us to understand that God’s kingdom defies worldly power structures and prioritizes humility and servitude, inspiring us to adopt the same humility and readiness to be used as tools for His message of peace and salvation.

3. Obedience Optimized

Matthew 21:6–7

Maybe consider how the disciples prepared the donkey without fully knowing the plan, demonstrating trust and obedience. Their seemingly insignificant task was pivotal in fulfilling Jesus’ mission. This invites us to recognize the critical importance of faithful action in service to God’s purposes, regardless of our understanding. We can be assured that God uses our simple acts when done in faith and trust.

4. Praise and Perception

Matthew 21:8–9

You could reflect on the people's response, spreading garments and branches, and shouting "Hosanna," acknowledging Jesus as their King. This celebration contrasts with their later cries for crucifixion, highlighting the fickleness of human support contrasted with God's unwavering plan. Encourage believers to maintain a steadfast commitment to Christ beyond initial enthusiasm, understanding that our devotion is part of His redemptive plan for the world.

When I think about being needed, I am reminded of my dog, Max. Whenever I sit down to relax, Max suddenly needs attention - a scratch behind the ears or a belly rub. He’ll nudge my hand as if saying, 'Hey, I'm here! Pay attention to me!'. In a similar way, we all want to feel needed and loved like Max does. The Bible assures us that we are more than just pets; we are valued members of God's family, created for connection and community.

I once heard about a boy who kept bringing home a toy that his little sister had broken. At first, the sister felt guilty, but soon she realized that her brother just wanted to feel important and needed. Just like how we need each other to fulfill our purpose! In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, Paul teaches us that we are all parts of one body; each part is needed for the body to function, just like how siblings support each other.

Imagine a sunflower that turns its head to follow the sun, feeling a glow of light on its petals. In much the same way, we find purpose in being needed - for our friends and family, for our community, and for God. Philippians 2:4 reminds us to look out for the interests of others; when we do, we find ourselves shining brighter in light of our collective love and support.