Will You Be an April Fool for Christ? Mark 11:1-11. I How many of you have been April Fooled already today?

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Will You Be an April Fool for Christ? Mark 11:1-11. I How many of you have been April Fooled already today?"

Transcription

1 1 Will You Be an April Fool for Christ? Mark 11:1-11 [A sermon preached by the Rev. Stan Gockel at the Bellbrook Presbyterian Church on April 1, 2012] I How many of you have been April Fooled already today? Did you get salt out of the sugar bowl for your coffee or cereal? Did the lids to the pepper and salt shakers fall off with the first shake? Was your bed short-sheeted or your shirt sleeves turned inside out? There is very little agreement on when April Fool s Day began. One explanation is that it went back to the Roman festival of Hilaria, a festival celebrated on the vernal equinox in honor of the goddess Cybele. Another version is that April Fool s Day originated in France during the Middle Ages. At that time people followed the Julian calendar, which celebrated New Years Day on March 25, followed by a seven-day celebration that ended on April 1, with visits to friends and neighbors and the exchange of gifts. In the mid-1500s, the switch was made to the Gregorian calendar, with New Years Day moving from March 25 to January 1. Such a radical change didn t come easily.

2 2 Many rejected the new calendar and refused to change, and according to some writers, those who celebrated the New Year on January 1 made fun of them and called them April fools. April Fool s Day is now practiced in many countries. April Fools jokes and pranks are intended to disrupt our routine, shake up our perceptions, and cause us to not take ourselves quite so seriously. Sometimes April Fool s is something contrived. On April 1, 1915, in the midst of World War I, a French aviator flew over a German camp and dropped what appeared to be a huge bomb. The German soldiers immediately scattered in all directions, but no explosion followed. After some time, the soldiers crept back and cautiously approached the bomb. They discovered it was actually a large football with a note tied to it that read, "April Fools!" Sometimes April Fool s just happens. After the death of pop artist Andy Warhol, who was a devout Christian, a memorial service was held at St. Patrick s Cathedral in New York City on April Fool s Day 1987, with 2000 people in attendance. Whether contrived or natural, to be an April Fool is to be willing to laugh at ourselves and be open to the surprises that come our way. II There is no better day for Palm Sunday to fall on than April Fool s Day. Jesus entry into Jerusalem is the classic April Fools experience. Jesus sends two of his disciples to Bethphage to borrow a colt.

3 3 They must have been waiting for Jesus to say April Fools! But he doesn t. Instead he sends his disciples to go and commit the first-century equivalent of grand theft auto. Borrowing a valuable animal, an unbroken young colt, was frowned upon and punished in first century Palestine as seriously as horse-thieving was in the Old West. Jesus further instruction sound like another April Fool joke just say, The Lord needs it. I am sure those two disciples were thinking, Yeah. Right. That will work! But then it does! The colt arrives Jesus mounts it and the procession into the city of Jerusalem commences. Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a borrowed donkey. What kind of king is this? Someone has pointed out that Jesus was born in a borrowed stable, and laid in a borrowed manger. As he traveled, he had no place of his own to lay his head. He rode into the city on a borrowed donkey. He ate his final meal in a borrowed room. He was crucified on a borrowed cross, wearing a borrowed crown

4 4 that jokers stuck on his head. And when he died, his body was placed in a borrowed tomb. Is Palm Sunday God s version of April Fools? III It is important to remember that Jesus and his disciples were pious, observant Jews who knew their scripture. His disciples knew the significance of their Master riding a young colt into Jerusalem. This was a statement of kingship, of deliverance, of prophetic fulfillment. In that moment of great anticipation, Jesus followers decide to disrobe. They remove their cloaks, the garments that most physically identify who they are, and lay them down on the road, creating a cushioned path for the skittish young animal bearing their Master. To remove one s cloak in public was a more revealing, humbling action than simply taking off a topcoat would be for us. A cloak revealed much about one s social status and wealth. Among the poor a cloak was a daytime garment and a nighttime bedroll. The Greek historian Plutarch told of a Roman general whose fellow soldiers showed him the highest honor by casting down their cloaks, their badges of rank and distinction, for him to walk on. The garments worn under one s cloak were simple and unadorned, skimpy even.

5 5 So in effect those who spread their cloaks on the road for Jesus were more or less standing around in their underwear. What kind of April Fool s joke was this? What April Fools were they for stripping down and looking undignified and underdressed in order to honor a scriptural image of the messiah? The disciples surely envisioned that such a significant, majestic entrance into the Holy City could not help but lead to great success. Surely Jesus chose to enter the city in such a royal, messianic way because he was planning some sort of popular uprising, or some extraordinary display of power. This Passover Week was obviously going to be a scene of great success. Or was it going to be April Fools? IV Jesus rides a borrowed donkey the disciples spread their cloaks on Jesus path. Then other Passover pilgrims traveling into Jerusalem got into the spirit of Jesus procession. Some of them peeled off their cloaks and dared to bare their backs in a state of crowd enthusiasm. Others chanted hosanna and lay down branches for their combined procession into the city. For everyone in this crowd Jesus and his disciples, the mixed multitude of pilgrims

6 6 the destination is the same: the spiritual center of Judaism the Temple. Obviously something wonderful is about to happen. April Fools. Instead Jesus reaches the Temple, enters that sacred space and simply stares it down. Then, without a word, Jesus turns on his heel and departs not just from the Temple Mount, but from the city of Jerusalem. This strange quiet on Palm Sunday speaks loudly about the transformation Jesus presence and sacrifice are about to bring into being. Just as Jesus instructed his disciples to shake off the dust of those communities that would not welcome them, now Jesus shakes the dust of the Temple and the entire priestly/sacrificial bureaucracy off his feet as he walks back to Bethany. Jesus does not linger at the Temple. There is nothing of God there. Besides, he has a young colt he promised to return immediately. If the Temple, the priestly authorities, the religious power structure, thought Jesus was on his way to pay them honor and homage all we can say is: April Fools!

7 7 V Here s the point we need to get on April Fool s Day: Jesus never flinched from playing the fool in order to fulfill God s will. He directed and rode in a pilgrimage parade into Jerusalem to the tune of Hosanna. Then he left it all to plod a dusty path back to Bethany. Those who followed him were not scholars of star students. They were fishermen and tax collectors, nobodies and ne er-do-wells. His foolish path took him into Jerusalem to the chants of Blessed be and had him driven out of Jerusalem with a cross beam strapped to his back on his way to Golgotha. As Philippians tells us, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness, and being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death even death on a cross. (Phil. 2:7-8) He became the fool for God. Are we willing to become an April Fool for him? Are you willing to admit that you are part of a truly foolish family? The Hebrew prophets of the Old Testament routinely made fools of themselves.

8 8 Isaiah stomped around naked and barefoot for three years (Isaiah 20:1-6). Jeremiah wore a ruined loincloth (Jeremiah 13:1-11); wore an ox yoke around his neck (Jeremiah 28:1-17), and bought a plot of land occupied by the enemy a truly BAD investment if ever there was one (Jeremiah 32:1-15). Ezekiel ate up scrolls of written words not what I would call a low carb diet (Ezekiel 2:1-3:3); Hosea married a prostitute and named their children after God s judgments (Hosea 1:2-2:1). And that is just in the First Testament! After the ultimate April Fool the April Fool of Christ s death, the April Fool that destroyed the sting of sin and offered instead complete salvation, a whole new raft of fools took float. The Pharisee Saul of Taurus became Paul the Apostle. The hedonistic, sophisticated Augustine became the greatest theologian of the ancient church. St. Francis stripped off his clothes and turned his back on his affluent life in order to serve the poor and needy. Throughout the two thousand years of Christianity, the faithful have stepped forward from the safety of anonymity or the security of a comfortable position to embrace foolishness, nakedness, a Palm Sunday parade mentality... in order to proclaim Christ. If Easter Sunday is the day to get all dressed up,

9 9 then maybe Palm Sunday is the day to dress down in order to be April Fools for Christ. VI So take a risk at caring about someone who is truly risky. Go out on a limb. Take the road usually not taken. Don t cross the street to avoid a possible problem. Don t be afraid to be naked to be on parade to be different. To be a follower of the One who never flinched when it came to being a fool for God, is to be an April Fool for Christ. Will you be just that? Amen. Will you be an April Fool for Christ? Sources: History of April Fool s Day retrieved from Arthur H. Kuehn, Are You an April Fool? sermon manuscript with n.d. Leonard Sweet, sermon retrieved from

Jesus Triumphal Entry

Jesus Triumphal Entry Week 4 (March 24th/25th) 32.1 Elementary SGL Jesus Triumphal Entry Bible Passages: Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19 Main Point: People welcomed Jesus to Jerusalem as their King.

More information

Giving Up Popularity Matthew 21:1-11

Giving Up Popularity Matthew 21:1-11 Giving Up Popularity Matthew 21:1-11 PRAY INTRO: We are quickly approaching Easter Sunday. On that day we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus. And we end the season of Lent. That we means whatever we gave

More information

Palm Sunday The Triumphal Entry March 29, 2015

Palm Sunday The Triumphal Entry March 29, 2015 Palm Sunday The Triumphal Entry March 29, 2015 Mark 11: 1-10 (NLT) 11 As Jesus and his disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the towns of Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent

More information

Leaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday.

Leaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday. Leader DEVOTIONAL Leaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday. The Sunday before Easter is Palm Sunday the

More information

Jesus Triumphal Entry

Jesus Triumphal Entry 2 s and PK April 8th/9th (20.1) Jesus Triumphal Entry Bible Passages: Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19 Main Point: People welcomed Jesus as their King. 2 s Memory Verse: Jesus

More information

More Than a Prophet?

More Than a Prophet? Session 4 More Than a Prophet? Jesus fulfilled the prophecies associated with Israel s long-awaited King. MATTHEW 21:1-11 1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus

More information

The Redeemer Has Come March 25, 2018 Matthew 21:1-11. A Lutheran pastor was preaching in an unfamiliar church one Sunday morning. As he stood in the

The Redeemer Has Come March 25, 2018 Matthew 21:1-11. A Lutheran pastor was preaching in an unfamiliar church one Sunday morning. As he stood in the The Redeemer Has Come March 25, 2018 Matthew 21:1-11 I. Introduction A Lutheran pastor was preaching in an unfamiliar church one Sunday morning. As he stood in the pulpit to begin the service, he tapped

More information

Bellaire Community UMC Palm Sunday March 18, 2018 Eric Falker Page 1. Palm Sunday. Series Love Leads the Way, part 1

Bellaire Community UMC Palm Sunday March 18, 2018 Eric Falker Page 1. Palm Sunday. Series Love Leads the Way, part 1 Eric Falker Page 1 Mark 11:1-11 Palm Sunday Series Love Leads the Way, part 1 Liturgically speaking, today is not officially Palm Sunday. According to the traditional calendar, Palm Sunday should be next

More information

1 -- Palm Sunday 2014

1 -- Palm Sunday 2014 Jesus Triumphal Entry Palm Sunday 2014 Luke 19:28-44 I. Introduction This morning I want to remind you of a very familiar story. It began one early Sunday morning; just after sunrise we call it Palm Sunday.

More information

Ps 118; Is 50:4-9a; Phil 2:5-11; Mt 21:1-11 April 9th, 2017 Palm Sunday - Blessed Is the One Who Comes in the Name of the Lord always

Ps 118; Is 50:4-9a; Phil 2:5-11; Mt 21:1-11 April 9th, 2017 Palm Sunday - Blessed Is the One Who Comes in the Name of the Lord always Ps 118; Is 50:4-9a; Phil 2:5-11; Mt 21:1-11 April 9 th, 2017 Palm Sunday - Blessed Is the One Who Comes in the Name of the Lord Israel is a vitally important piece of land in the Middle East, and it is

More information

Lesson 21 In and Out of Jerusalem, Cleanses Temple 2 nd Time. Jesus Sends Disciples for Colt Matthew 21:1-7; Mark 11:1-7; Luke 19:28-35

Lesson 21 In and Out of Jerusalem, Cleanses Temple 2 nd Time. Jesus Sends Disciples for Colt Matthew 21:1-7; Mark 11:1-7; Luke 19:28-35 Lesson 21 In and Out of Jerusalem, Cleanses Temple 2 nd Time Jesus Sends Disciples for Colt Matthew 21:1-7; Mark 11:1-7; Luke 19:28-35 Jesus and His disciples have now left Bethany and are headed for Jerusalem

More information

Jesus Triumphal Entry

Jesus Triumphal Entry UNIT 32 Session 1 Use Week of: 1 Jesus Triumphal Entry BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19 MAIN POINT: People welcomed Jesus to Jerusalem as their King. KEY PASSAGE:

More information

The Day Jesus Rode Into Town Matthew 21:1-11 (NKJV)

The Day Jesus Rode Into Town Matthew 21:1-11 (NKJV) Message for THE LORD'S DAY MORNING, April 6, 2017 PALM SUNDAY MESSAGE Christian Hope Church of Christ, Plymouth, North Carolina by Reggie A. Braziel, Minister TOPIC: SPECIAL DAY MESSAGE, PALM SUNDAY The

More information

Palm Sunday (B) or Passion Sunday (B) Isaiah 50 Psalm 118 Philippians 2 Mark 11a

Palm Sunday (B) or Passion Sunday (B) Isaiah 50 Psalm 118 Philippians 2 Mark 11a 1 Palm Sunday (B) or Passion Sunday (B) Isaiah 50 Psalm 118 Philippians 2 Mark 11a - choose Palm or Passion - triumphal entry + song of victory - on other hand Suffering Servant song o faithful obedience

More information

LETS WELCOME THE KING

LETS WELCOME THE KING STORY (Luke 19:28-40; Mark 11) JESUS TRIUMPHAL ENTRY Luke 19 28 When He had said this, He went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 And it came to pass, when He drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, at the

More information

1 2014, Reverend Steve Carlson Tabernacle Baptist Church West National Avenue West Allis, Wisconsin

1 2014, Reverend Steve Carlson Tabernacle Baptist Church West National Avenue West Allis, Wisconsin Jesus Comes to Jerusalem January 12, 2014 John 12:12-19 I. Introduction Christmas and New Year s certainly seem like a long time ago. It certainly doesn t take long to settle back into the same old routine

More information

Preschool. March 29, :45am

Preschool. March 29, :45am Preschool March 29, 2015 8:45am Leader BIBLE STUDY 3 The Sunday before is Palm Sunday the day Jesus entered Jerusalem as the King of kings the week before Passover. Many of God s people traveled to Jerusalem

More information

BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD Zechariah Philippians Luke

BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD Zechariah Philippians Luke BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD Zechariah 9. 9 12 Philippians 2. 5-11 Luke 19. 28-40 I speak to you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. It s the

More information

Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem

Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem http://www.biblestudyworkshop.org 1 Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem April 9, 29 A.D. Matthew 21:1-11 Mark 11:1-11 Luke 29:29-44 John 12:12-19 http://www.biblestudyworkshop.org 2 Texts: Matthew 21:1-11 Triumphal

More information

Teaching Point: Jesus is very much in control as He lets the disciples in on what is really happening as the hour of His death approaches.

Teaching Point: Jesus is very much in control as He lets the disciples in on what is really happening as the hour of His death approaches. Lesson Highlights: Scripture References: Luke 19:28-40 Teaching Point: Jesus is very much in control as He lets the disciples in on what is really happening as the hour of His death approaches. Unit Memory

More information

The Lamb of God March 28, 2010 Mark 11:1-11

The Lamb of God March 28, 2010 Mark 11:1-11 I. Introduction The Lamb of God March 28, 2010 Mark 11:1-11 When a new child is born or adopted into a family, everyone hopes for the best in his life down through the years. For example, there is an old

More information

Palm Sunday: Psalm 118:1-2,19-29 Luke 19: Passion Sunday: Isaiah 50:4-9a Psalm 31:9-16 Philippians 2:5-11 Luke 22:14 23:56

Palm Sunday: Psalm 118:1-2,19-29 Luke 19: Passion Sunday: Isaiah 50:4-9a Psalm 31:9-16 Philippians 2:5-11 Luke 22:14 23:56 Ocean View and Frankford Presbyterian Churches (DE) Palm / Passion Sunday (Year C) March 24, 2013 Palm Sunday: Psalm 118:1-2,19-29 Luke 19:28-40 Passion Sunday: Isaiah 50:4-9a Psalm 31:9-16 Philippians

More information

LECTIONARY COMMENTARY

LECTIONARY COMMENTARY PALM SUNDAY LECTIONARY COMMENTARY Sunday, March 16, 2008 Rodney S. Sadler Jr., Lectionary Team Commentator Lection Zechariah 9:9-13 and Luke 19:28-40 (New Revised Standard Version) Zechariah 9:9-13 (v.

More information

The Preparation for Jesus Coming to Jerusalem (Mark 11:1-6)

The Preparation for Jesus Coming to Jerusalem (Mark 11:1-6) International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes March 29, 2015 Lesson Text: Mark 11:1-11 Lesson Title: Coming in the Name of the Lord Introduction The last week of Jesus life, known as Passion Week or Holy

More information

Holy Week in a Box. Palm Sunday: Paper Palm Fronds It s Palm Sunday. The people cut down palms and cheered as Jesus entered Jerusalem.

Holy Week in a Box. Palm Sunday: Paper Palm Fronds It s Palm Sunday. The people cut down palms and cheered as Jesus entered Jerusalem. Holy Week in a Box Experiencing the stories of Holy Week at home is a powerful way to share and reinforce stories that sometimes get put aside during the program year. A Journey through Holy Week Holy

More information

Covenant: Arrival Mark 11:1-11 A Sermon by Rev. Bob Kells

Covenant: Arrival Mark 11:1-11 A Sermon by Rev. Bob Kells Covenant: Arrival Mark 11:1-11 A Sermon by Rev. Bob Kells This morning is the fourth installment in a sermon series I call Covenant. For those of you who missed some of the previous sermons, we are tracing

More information

Teacher BIBLE STUDY. 1 Younger Kids Leader Guide Unit 7, Session 1 Copyright 2012 LifeWay

Teacher BIBLE STUDY. 1 Younger Kids Leader Guide Unit 7, Session 1 Copyright 2012 LifeWay Teacher BIBLE STUDY It was time to celebrate the Passover. Many of God s people traveled to Jerusalem for the occasion. Jesus and His disciples traveled to Jerusalem as well. Jesus made a spectacular entrance

More information

A Journey with Christ the Messiah It's Sunday but Friday is Coming

A Journey with Christ the Messiah It's Sunday but Friday is Coming INTRODUCTION: A Journey with Christ the Messiah It's Sunday but Friday is Coming John 12:1, 9-11; Luke 19:29-36; John 12:12-19 April 2, 2107 In order to continue with the theme of "A Journey with Christ

More information

LESSON OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE

LESSON OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE TEACHER BIBLE STUDY It was time to celebrate the Passover. Many of God s people traveled to Jerusalem for the occasion. Jesus and His disciples traveled to Jerusalem as well. Jesus made a spectacular entrance

More information

The Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem Matthew 21:1-11

The Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem Matthew 21:1-11 Lesson 260 The Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem Matthew 21:1-11 MEMORY VERSE MATTHEW 21:9b " Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the L ORD! Hosanna is the highest!" WHAT YOU

More information

Matthew 21:1-11. Philippians 2:5-11

Matthew 21:1-11. Philippians 2:5-11 1 Matthew 21:1-11 When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you

More information

Luke 19:28-44 Palm Sunday

Luke 19:28-44 Palm Sunday Luke 19:28-44 Palm Sunday Parkdale Grace Fellowship Sunday AM, April 13, 2014 Palm Sunday is the name given to commemorate the event that we have described for us in our text this morning. It commemorates

More information

4:00 4:10 ACTIVITY SHEET / ARRIVING ACTIVITY: 4:10 4:15 CLEAN UP / GO OVER RULES & CONSEQUENCES: Rules are on the wall by the door

4:00 4:10 ACTIVITY SHEET / ARRIVING ACTIVITY: 4:10 4:15 CLEAN UP / GO OVER RULES & CONSEQUENCES: Rules are on the wall by the door 4pm: 1 st 4 th Grade Classroom Schedule Bible Passage: Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19 Main Point: Because of Jesus we always have a reason to praise. Memory Verse: Psalm 71:23

More information

READINGS Zechariah 9:9-10 Psalm 24 Philippians 2:5-11 Year A: Matthew 21:1-11 Year B: Mark 11:1-11 Year C: Luke 19:28-40

READINGS Zechariah 9:9-10 Psalm 24 Philippians 2:5-11 Year A: Matthew 21:1-11 Year B: Mark 11:1-11 Year C: Luke 19:28-40 READINGS Zechariah 9:9-10 Psalm 24 Philippians 2:5-11 Year A: Matthew 21:1-11 Year B: Mark 11:1-11 Year C: Luke 19:28-40 THE COLLECT OF THE DAY Jesus our Saviour, on this day you were given a hero s welcome

More information

11:1-11 JESUS IS PRESENTED AS THE MESSIAH AND INSPECTS THE TEMPLE. MT. 21:1-11, LK. 19:29-44, JN. 12:12-19

11:1-11 JESUS IS PRESENTED AS THE MESSIAH AND INSPECTS THE TEMPLE. MT. 21:1-11, LK. 19:29-44, JN. 12:12-19 Mark 11:1-11 3/12/2017 Time of Visitation Israel s Your Notes The week had finally arrived for which Jesus had been born. 11:1-11 JESUS IS PRESENTED AS THE MESSIAH AND INSPECTS THE TEMPLE. MT. 21:1-11,

More information

Unit 20, Session 1: Jesus Triumphal Entry Unit 20, Session 2: Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection

Unit 20, Session 1: Jesus Triumphal Entry Unit 20, Session 2: Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection Unit 20, Session 1: Jesus Triumphal Entry Unit 20, Session 2: Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection **Note to leaders: Use the tweets, status updates, and emails included in this document to keep parents

More information

Psalm 113 A Call to Worship God Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Go ahead, praise the Lord, all you loving servants of God! Keep it up!

Psalm 113 A Call to Worship God Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Go ahead, praise the Lord, all you loving servants of God! Keep it up! Psalm 113 A Call to Worship God Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Go ahead, praise the Lord, all you loving servants of God! Keep it up! Praise him some more! For the glorious name of the Lord is blessed forever

More information

The Triumphant Entry (Scripture: John 12:12-19)

The Triumphant Entry (Scripture: John 12:12-19) The Triumphant Entry (Scripture: John 12:12-19) On the next day the great multitude who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took the branches of the palm trees, and

More information

Jesus Was Baptized 4/7/2017

Jesus Was Baptized 4/7/2017 Jesus Was Baptized 4/7/2017 BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:1-11; Luke 3:21-22; John 1:19-34 MAIN POINT: Jesus obeyed God by being baptized. KEY PASSAGE: 1 Timothy 1:15 Here is the trustworthy saying

More information

The Road Less Traveled

The Road Less Traveled The Road Less Traveled Luke 19:29-40 29 As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, 30 Go to the village ahead of you, and

More information

Who is this? March 29, 2015 Matthew 21:1-11

Who is this? March 29, 2015 Matthew 21:1-11 I. Introduction Who is this? March 29, 2015 Matthew 21:1-11 Passover was one of the most important Jewish festivals and it was less than a week away. Passover commemorated the time when God brought the

More information

Bellaire Community United Methodist Church April 2, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You. Series of Psalms (Lent) part 5

Bellaire Community United Methodist Church April 2, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You. Series of Psalms (Lent) part 5 Eric Falker, page 1 Bellaire Community United Methodist Church April 2, 2017 Thank You, Thank You, Thank You Series of Psalms (Lent) part 5 Psalm 118:15-28 You are in the right place this morning. Take

More information

The second theme of this passage is responding in praise for what Jesus did.

The second theme of this passage is responding in praise for what Jesus did. Hosanna to the son of david. Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord. The thronging crowds lined the street, like a parade, to welcome their King and savior! Imagine for a moment what it was like

More information

International Bible Lessons Commentary Matthew 21:1-17

International Bible Lessons Commentary Matthew 21:1-17 International Bible Lessons Commentary Matthew 21:1-17 International Bible Lessons Sunday, March 30, 2014 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday,

More information

Session 1 PRESCHOOL UNIT 20 1 UNIT 20 // SESSION 1 // CYCLE 1 PRESCHOOL 3-5 YEAR OLDS

Session 1 PRESCHOOL UNIT 20 1 UNIT 20 // SESSION 1 // CYCLE 1 PRESCHOOL 3-5 YEAR OLDS BIBLE STUDY The Sunday before Easter is Palm Sunday the day Jesus entered Jerusalem as the King of kings the week of Passover. Many of God s people traveled to Jerusalem for Passover. Jesus and His disciples

More information

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. A reading from the holy gospel according to Luke 19:28-40

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. A reading from the holy gospel according to Luke 19:28-40 [35] PASSION SUNDAY C (Palm Sunday) The Procession with Palms GOSPEL Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. A reading from the holy gospel according to Luke 19:28-40 Jesus went toward Jerusalem.

More information

Sunday School Lesson WordForLifeSays.com

Sunday School Lesson WordForLifeSays.com Sunday School Lesson WordForLifeSays.com TOPIC: Mark 11:1-11 VERSE DISCOVERY: Mark 11:1-11 (KJV, Public Domain) At one point, before his death, John the Baptist sent men to Jesus and asked, Art thou he

More information

The Ultimate Counter-Procession

The Ultimate Counter-Procession 1 The Ultimate Counter-Procession Sermon by Pastor Patrick Fish March 24-25, 2018 Sunday of the Passion / Palm Sunday Mark 11:1-11 When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the

More information

The Whole City Was in Turmoil Timothy L. Carson Matthew 21:1-10 April 9, 2017

The Whole City Was in Turmoil Timothy L. Carson Matthew 21:1-10 April 9, 2017 The Whole City Was in Turmoil Timothy L. Carson Matthew 21:1-10 April 9, 2017 By the time we get to the story today Jesus and his disciples had been on the road traveling for a long time. They were making

More information

Palm Sunday Sunday Service Children s Story

Palm Sunday Sunday Service Children s Story Palm Sunday Sunday Service Children s Story Materials: Pictures of Jesus A Palm for each child Good morning and welcome and we welcome all the families on the broadcast. Happy Palm Sunday. Today, we celebrate

More information

Children love parades! America loves parades! They re fun! Joyful! Parades

Children love parades! America loves parades! They re fun! Joyful! Parades Sermon, Join the Parade, Palm Sunday, Mark 11:1-11 1 Children love parades! America loves parades! They re fun! Joyful! Parades celebrate our heritage and traditions. We know parades, small town or large

More information

Today s scripture is about one of the first flash mobs recorded in. biblical history: Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem on a donkey.

Today s scripture is about one of the first flash mobs recorded in. biblical history: Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem on a donkey. 1 PALM SUNDAY April 1, 2012 Rev. Vivian L. Rodeffer Text: Mark 11: 1 14 Then he entered Jerusalem and went into the Temple, and when he had looked around at everything, as it was already late, he went

More information

Jesus Triumphal Entry

Jesus Triumphal Entry UNIT 8 Session 1 Use Week of: Jesus Triumphal Entry 1 BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19 MAIN POINT: People welcomed Jesus to Jerusalem as their King. KEY PASSAGE:

More information

The Road to the Empty Tomb Part 2 The Road To Victory Luke 19:35-44

The Road to the Empty Tomb Part 2 The Road To Victory Luke 19:35-44 The Road to the Empty Tomb Part 2 The Road To Victory Luke 19:35-44 Today we observe Palm Sunday. This is the day commemorating the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. Triumphal means to celebrating

More information

The Things That Make for Peace

The Things That Make for Peace The Things That Make for Peace Meditation on Luke 19:28-44 March 20 (Palm Sunday) 2016 After he had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the

More information

Hosanna! Mark 11:1-11

Hosanna! Mark 11:1-11 Hosanna! Mark 11:1-11 Do you remember show and tell in school? You know you brought something to class and before the whole group you explained what you had. The scripture we just read was one of Jesus

More information

Jesus Triumphal Entry

Jesus Triumphal Entry Jesus Triumphal Entry Matthew 21:1 11 LESSON GOAL The child will not only praise Jesus with his lips but will also obey Him with his life. BIBLE TRUTHS Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey s colt. The

More information

PALM SUNDAY SERMON

PALM SUNDAY SERMON PALM SUNDAY SERMON 4-13-2014 The First Chinese Church of Christ in Hawai i UCC Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11; Ps 118:1-2, 19-29 Message: GOD Will Never Desert Us! Kekapa P.K. Lee Page 1 of 8 GATHERING IN

More information

Palm Sunday Every Picture Tells A Story (and asks a question ) (John 12)

Palm Sunday Every Picture Tells A Story (and asks a question ) (John 12) Palm Sunday Every Picture Tells A Story (and asks a question ) (John 12) 1 I don t know if it is old age and the whole walk down memory lane thing or what, but I like looking at photos. Not just any photos,

More information

HOSANNA TO THE KING_ (John 12:12-19)

HOSANNA TO THE KING_ (John 12:12-19) HOSANNA TO THE KING_ (John 12:12-19) INTRODUCTION: We all love a big parade. What is the best parade you have ever seen? Macy s Christmas parade? Evidently the Bastille Day parade in France must be impressive.

More information

My best wishes for a meaningful Holy Week. Dr. Frank Allen, Pastor 4/8/2006

My best wishes for a meaningful Holy Week. Dr. Frank Allen, Pastor 4/8/2006 My best wishes for a meaningful Holy Week. Dr. Frank Allen, Pastor 4/8/2006 Mark 11:1-11 (NRSV) When they were approaching Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, he sent two of

More information

Bethel United Church of Christ April 14, th Sunday in Lent Palm ~ Passion Sunday

Bethel United Church of Christ April 14, th Sunday in Lent Palm ~ Passion Sunday Bethel United Church of Christ April 14, 2019 6th Sunday in Lent Palm ~ Passion Sunday Journey: Into Jerusalem No matter who you are or where you are on life s journey, you are welcome here Welcome - please

More information

April 9, 2017 First Christian Church Wichita Falls, Texas

April 9, 2017 First Christian Church Wichita Falls, Texas IN THIS GLORY PALM SUNDAY Matthew 21:1-11 Rev. Renee Hoke April 9, 2017 First Christian Church Wichita Falls, Texas Matthew 21 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives,

More information

A Study Of The Book of Matthew Sermon # 73. He is My King! Matthew 21:1-11

A Study Of The Book of Matthew Sermon # 73. He is My King! Matthew 21:1-11 A Study Of The Book of Matthew Sermon # 73 120604 1Bt Sm He is My King! Matthew 21:1-11 It is now late March and the Feast of Passover is near. We are in the last week of the Lord's earthly ministry. We

More information

The Lord Has Need of It

The Lord Has Need of It Rev. W. Reid Hankins, M.Div. Mark 11:1-11 10/19/08 The Lord Has Need of It Jesus is my Lord and Savior! Amen? Is that true for you? To call Jesus your Lord and Savior is to use some very common titles

More information

Purchase 12 coloured, plastic eggs, label the eggs from 1 to 12 and place the following contents inside the eggs:

Purchase 12 coloured, plastic eggs, label the eggs from 1 to 12 and place the following contents inside the eggs: RESURRECTION EGGS Purchase 12 coloured, plastic eggs, label the eggs from 1 to 12 and place the following contents inside the eggs: 1. Leaf 2. Bread or grapes 3. Coin 4. Rope 5. Small toy chicken or candy

More information

In Light of This. Palm Sunday - Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem - Praise and Celebration of the people Setting the Stage: Passover Time - city would sw

In Light of This. Palm Sunday - Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem - Praise and Celebration of the people Setting the Stage: Passover Time - city would sw Palm Sunday - Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem - Praise and Celebration of the people Setting the Stage: Passover Time - city would swell by 1 million people - celebration of God s deliverance in Egypt -

More information

Luke 19: Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!

Luke 19: Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven! Luke 19:28-40 28 After he had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples,

More information

PALM SUNDAY - YEAR B (RCL) 29 March The FOOL KING + + +

PALM SUNDAY - YEAR B (RCL) 29 March The FOOL KING + + + GRACE CHURCH Honesdale, PA PALM SUNDAY - YEAR B (RCL) 29 March 2015 Ezekiel 37: 21-28 Psalm 24 Philippians 2: 5-11 Mark 11: 1-11 The FOOL KING + + + A church up the street has on their billboard, Put your

More information

April 13, 2014: THE LORD'S ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY)

April 13, 2014: THE LORD'S ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) April 13, 2014: THE LORD'S ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY) Epistle: Phil. 4:4-9: Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.

More information

What Kind of King is Jesus? Lenten Sermon Series: The Final Week Mark 11:1-11

What Kind of King is Jesus? Lenten Sermon Series: The Final Week Mark 11:1-11 What Kind of King is Jesus? Lenten Sermon Series: The Final Week Mark 11:1-11 Rev. Michael D. Halley February 14, 2016 Suffolk Christian Church Suffolk, Virginia First Sunday in Lent ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

More information

Why DO Lent? Hail Him, Nail Him Focus: Acknowledging Joy and Sin Matthew 21:1-11 March 20, 2016 Pastor Sandi Evans Rogers

Why DO Lent? Hail Him, Nail Him Focus: Acknowledging Joy and Sin Matthew 21:1-11 March 20, 2016 Pastor Sandi Evans Rogers Why DO Lent? Hail Him, Nail Him Focus: Acknowledging Joy and Sin Matthew 21:1-11 March 20, 2016 Pastor Sandi Evans Rogers When was the last time you celebrated in a crowd? Crowds can be a funny maybe curious

More information

A2F: With Jesus on the Way to Calvary Ashes to Fire, Year A (Matthew 21:1-11) 1

A2F: With Jesus on the Way to Calvary Ashes to Fire, Year A (Matthew 21:1-11) 1 1 4/9/17 West Valley Church Michael O Neill Video A2F: With Jesus on the Way to Calvary Ashes to Fire, Year A (Matthew 21:1-11) 1 It was October 29, 1927 when Charles Lindbergh was given a ticker-tape

More information

BEHOLD YOUR KING. April 9, Matthew 21:1-11, HCSB

BEHOLD YOUR KING. April 9, Matthew 21:1-11, HCSB BEHOLD YOUR KING April 9, 2017 Matthew 21:1-11, HCSB 1 When they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage at the Mount of Olives, Jesus then sent two disciples, 2 telling them, Go into the village ahead

More information

DISCUSS TOGETHER. What is one of your favorite traditions that you celebrate either something you grew up celebrating or one that you started?

DISCUSS TOGETHER. What is one of your favorite traditions that you celebrate either something you grew up celebrating or one that you started? DISCUSS TOGETHER All of the material in this guide is provided for fostering healthy discussion in your group. Read through the prompts together and discuss the bolded questions out loud. Celebrating traditions

More information

The Entrance of the King

The Entrance of the King The Entrance of the King Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:1-11 March 30, 2014 www.wordforlifesays.com (Please Note: All lesson verses and titles are based on International Sunday School Lesson/Uniform Series

More information

More Than A Prophet? March 26, 2017 Allen Power

More Than A Prophet? March 26, 2017 Allen Power More Than A Prophet? March 26, 2017 Allen Power Matthew 21:1-11 Opening: Have you ever been in the crowd when a big celebrity or winning sports team came to town? Who was it? What was it like? Why were

More information

3.5. Jesus Is King. Bible Passage: Matthew 21:1 11; John 12:12 19 (Triumphal Entry)

3.5. Jesus Is King. Bible Passage: Matthew 21:1 11; John 12:12 19 (Triumphal Entry) date: Bible Passage: Matthew 21:1 11; John 12:12 19 (Triumphal Entry) Jesus Is King REMEMBER VERSE I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in

More information

THE KING COMES TO TOWN

THE KING COMES TO TOWN 1 TEXT SERMONS PALM SUNDAY THE KING COMES TO TOWN Matthew 21:1-11; Luke 19:28-44 As He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and

More information

Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. Jesus is King. April 9, 2017

Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. Jesus is King. April 9, 2017 April 9, 2017 Jesus is King DATE PONDER POINT Matthew 21:1 11; Mark 11:1 11; Luke 19:28 38; John 12:12 1 (Triumphal Entry/Palm Sunday) THE BIG GOD STORY Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and

More information

Jesus Grand Entry (Palm Sunday 2012) April 1, 2012 Mark 11:1-11

Jesus Grand Entry (Palm Sunday 2012) April 1, 2012 Mark 11:1-11 Introduction: Jesus Grand Entry (Palm Sunday 2012) April 1, 2012 Mark 11:1-11 Have you ever had a big juicy secret that you promised not to tell to anyone? Maybe it was about a surprise birthday party

More information

GOD WITH US Part 7: Kings & Prophets to Exile and Return Judah s Fall and God s Faithfulness

GOD WITH US Part 7: Kings & Prophets to Exile and Return Judah s Fall and God s Faithfulness GOD WITH US Part 7: Kings & Prophets to Exile and Return Judah s Fall and God s Faithfulness Message 9 The Son of Man Arrives (Palm Sunday, 2018) Introduction Daniel saw more precisely than any other prophet

More information

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. A reading from the holy gospel according to Mark 11:1-10

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. A reading from the holy gospel according to Mark 11:1-10 [34] PASSION SUNDAY B (Palm Sunday) The Procession with Palms GOSPEL Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. A reading from the holy gospel according to Mark 11:1-10 Jesus and his disciples

More information

Kathryn Z. Johnston Searching for Palm Sunday Luke 19:28-40 April 14, 2019 Psalm 118:19-29

Kathryn Z. Johnston Searching for Palm Sunday Luke 19:28-40 April 14, 2019 Psalm 118:19-29 Kathryn Z. Johnston Searching for Palm Sunday Luke 19:28-40 April 14, 2019 Psalm 118:19-29 Psalm 118:19-29 Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.

More information

The Jews of Jesus day expected Messiah s coming to bring about His Kingdom, and destroy all others. That s why they stumbled over Jesus Christ.

The Jews of Jesus day expected Messiah s coming to bring about His Kingdom, and destroy all others. That s why they stumbled over Jesus Christ. 1 Expectations The disciples asked Jesus a final question: Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel? (Acts 1:6) All Israel expected their Messiah to come as a conquering King. He

More information

March 25, 2018 Palm Sunday, a Holy Procession Luke 19:28-40

March 25, 2018 Palm Sunday, a Holy Procession Luke 19:28-40 March 25, 2018 Palm Sunday, a Holy Procession Luke 19:28-40 Second Presbyterian Church, Baltimore The Rev. Dr. Tom Blair After he had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come

More information

h. You will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her: Jesus would ride upon the younger of these animals, the colt. He told the disciples how they

h. You will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her: Jesus would ride upon the younger of these animals, the colt. He told the disciples how they Hosanna! Matthew 21:1-11 Introduction: Beware of regarding emotional excitement as identical with religious feelings The religion of some people exhausts itself in hallelujahs; they possess no constant

More information

Grace Bible Church Pastor Teacher Robert R. McLaughlin Another Palm Sunday to Consider

Grace Bible Church Pastor Teacher Robert R. McLaughlin Another Palm Sunday to Consider Grace Bible Church Pastor Teacher Robert R. McLaughlin Another Palm Sunday to Consider. 032016 As we noted this past year, the Bible predicted in Dan 9:25 that in 173,880 days, the Lord Jesus Christ would

More information

JESUS AND HIS CITY. Matthew 21: 1-17

JESUS AND HIS CITY. Matthew 21: 1-17 JESUS AND HIS CITY Matthew 21: 1-17 Today is Palm Sunday, the first day of what is usually called Holy Week in which we commemorate the events of the last week of Jesus s ministry before his crucifixion

More information

Each week you ll find encouraging articles that help you prepare your heart to present the lesson.

Each week you ll find encouraging articles that help you prepare your heart to present the lesson. 3/24/19 Lesson 4 Bible Passage: Matthew 21:1 11; John 12:12 19 (Triumphal Entry) Jesus Is King Remember Verse I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I

More information

Palm Sunday 1992 was a shocking year in American politics, at least it was for me. President George H.W. Bush [the Senior] was fresh off experiencing

Palm Sunday 1992 was a shocking year in American politics, at least it was for me. President George H.W. Bush [the Senior] was fresh off experiencing Palm Sunday 1992 was a shocking year in American politics, at least it was for me. President George H.W. Bush [the Senior] was fresh off experiencing a victory in the first Gulf War. As you recall, the

More information

EASTER DEVOTIONAL GUIDE. Kids

EASTER DEVOTIONAL GUIDE. Kids EASTER DEVOTIONAL GUIDE Kids DAY 1: MARCH 20, 2016 LEVEL OF BIBLICAL LEARNING: JESUS THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem. As He came to the Mount of Olives outside of a town called Bethany,

More information

The Keys to Committed Faith (Luke 19:36, Matthew 27:15-23) by Rev. Dan McDowell April 14, 2019

The Keys to Committed Faith (Luke 19:36, Matthew 27:15-23) by Rev. Dan McDowell April 14, 2019 1 The Keys to Committed Faith (Luke 19:36, Matthew 27:15-23) by Rev. Dan McDowell April 14, 2019 36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. (Luke 19:36) 15 Now it was the governor s custom

More information

Hosanna in the Highest Mark 11: 1-11

Hosanna in the Highest Mark 11: 1-11 Hosanna in the Highest Mark 11: 1-11 Our text deals with a significant moment and time in the life of Jesus. Most title this passage the triumphal entry. It begins what has come to be known as Passion

More information

WORSHIP OF OUR LORD. April 14, 2019

WORSHIP OF OUR LORD. April 14, 2019 WORSHIP OF OUR LORD April 14, 2019 The only monarch who ever deserved that man should fall down before him was a child of poverty, whose life was spent in teaching, and who died an ignominious death. -

More information

JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM AS KING

JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM AS KING JESUS ENTERS JERUSALEM AS KING John 12:12-19 Key Verse: 12:15 Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkeys colt. In this passage Jesus enters Jerusalem for the final

More information

ON THE BACK OF A BABY DONKEY Mark 11:7-10 July 26, Dr. Howard K. Batson First Baptist Church Amarillo, Texas

ON THE BACK OF A BABY DONKEY Mark 11:7-10 July 26, Dr. Howard K. Batson First Baptist Church Amarillo, Texas ON THE BACK OF A BABY DONKEY Mark 11:7-10 July 26, 2015 Dr. Howard K. Batson First Baptist Church Amarillo, Texas Leadership changes make us nervous. You re an elementary school teacher, and there will

More information

Jesus Is King. March 25, Matthew 21:1 11; John 12:12 19 Triumphal Entry

Jesus Is King. March 25, Matthew 21:1 11; John 12:12 19 Triumphal Entry March 25, 2018 Jesus Is King DATE PONDER POINT I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved

More information

Jesus Triumphal Entry Text in all four Gospels. Read Matthew, then pray.

Jesus Triumphal Entry Text in all four Gospels. Read Matthew, then pray. Jesus Triumphal Entry 13.04.14 Text in all four Gospels Read Matthew, then pray. Mat 21:1 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples,

More information

Remembering Your King Who Came to Die Pastor Larry Adams

Remembering Your King Who Came to Die Pastor Larry Adams April 1, 2012 - Luke 19:28-44 Remembering Your King Who Came to Die Pastor Larry Adams We are coming to the start of the greatest week in human history. Today is Palm Sunday, and at communion we will be

More information