The King is Here!

Bible Passage: Jn 12:12-19

Summary: In this passage, we see Jesus' grand entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecy of the Messiah, illustrating His divine authority and establishing His kingship as the crowd joyfully welcomes Him with praises, waving palm branches.

Big Idea: Recognizing and celebrating Jesus as our King brings joy and hope, as seen in the Triumphal Entry where the crowd eagerly welcomes Him with praise.

1. The People Prepare

Jn 12:12-13

Right before Jesus made His way back to Jerusalem, He had raised His friend, Lazarus, from the dead. Many people had heard about this so when they heard that He was coming back the people were waiting eagerly with palm branches in hand and hearts full of expectation. This shows how we, too, should anticipate Jesus' presence in our lives with joy and eagerness, celebrating His kingship every day. The people were shouting Hosanna which means “save us”. The people wanted to make Jesus a King, but not the kind of king that He is.

2. The Humble Hero

Jn 12:14-15

In this verse we read how Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a Donkeys colt. Imagine being at a big parade. Everyone is waiting excitedly for the main event! Suddenly, here comes Jesus, not riding on a beautiful horse like a king, but on a little baby donkey! How funny that must have looked to the people! It’s as if He wanted to say, 'Look, I’m not your typical king!' This teaches us that God shows us His greatness not through grand displays, but through humility. Also, this was to fulfill a prophecy written in Zechariah 9:9 and signifying peace and humility. Do you know what a prophecy is? It is when people long before Jesus wrote things about what would happen. So Zechariah wrote Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion. Look, your King is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt. Which is exactly what had happened.

3. The Disciples Discover

Jn 12:16

In verse 16 we read that the disciples didn't understand these events at first, but later realized their significance. This teaches us that sometimes we don't understand God's plans immediately, but we can trust that He is working for our good. Encourage children to trust in Jesus even when they are uncertain if it could be beneficial.

4. The Crowd Celebrates

Jn 12:17-19

So we see again that the people just saw a huge miracle. How would you feel If you had just witnessed that? Pretty awesome, huh? And more people came to meet Him because of their testimonies. So, I want to challenge you. You, too, can share the joy of knowing Jesus with your friends and family, helping others to see and celebrate Jesus' love and power.

Review

John 12:12-19

What event were the people eagerly waiting for as Jesus entered Jerusalem?

What did the people shout as they welcomed Jesus?

How can we prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus into our lives like the crowd did?

Why did Jesus choose to ride on a donkey instead of a horse?

What is one way you can share the joy of Jesus' love with your friends?