This sermon revisits one of the most famous scenes in the New Testament: the moment Jesus of Nazareth officially presented Himself to the capital of Israel. It was a day of high emotion, prophetic fulfillment, and divine authority.
The Arrival of the King: Understanding the Triumphal Entry
Base Text: Matthew 21:1–15
Context: Jerusalem was a city accustomed to rulers and festivals, but it had never witnessed an entry like this. This wasn’t just a parade; it was a public proclamation of Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling the ancient words of the prophet Zechariah.
I. Jesus is King
Text: Matthew 21:5
The first thing we must realize is that this event was a perfectly choreographed fulfillment of prophecy. Hundreds of years earlier, Zechariah 9:9 declared: "Behold, your King is coming to you... lowly and riding on a donkey."
• A Recognized Title: Throughout His life, the title of "King" followed Him:
◦ At His Birth: The Magi asked, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?" (Matthew 2:2).
◦ In His Ministry: Nathanael confessed, "You are the King of Israel!" (John 1:49).
◦ At His Trial: He confirmed His royalty to Pilate (John 18:37).
◦ At His Death: Even as a mockery, the truth was nailed above His head (Matthew 27:42).
• A Different Kind of Royalty: Unlike earthly kings who come in pride on warhorses, Jesus came in meekness and humility. He is a King of love, accessible to anyone who approaches Him.
• The Eternal King: The apostles later proclaimed Him as the King of kings and Lord of lords (1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16).
Reflection: Many in Jerusalem saw the donkey but missed the King. Today, do you recognize Him as your Sovereign Lord, or just as a historical "good man"?
II. A King Who Stirs the Soul
Text: Matthew 21:10
The Bible says that when Jesus entered the city, "all the city was moved" or stirred. The presence of Jesus creates a commotion; it demands a reaction.
• The Great Question: The people asked, "Who is this?" (v. 10). It is the most important question anyone can ask.
• The Impact of the Gospel: Wherever the message of Jesus arrives, it agitates the status quo. It forces decisions. In the book of Acts, the Gospel was said to have "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6).
• No Neutral Ground: The preaching of the Cross never leaves people indifferent. It is either a "stumbling block" to some or the "power of God" to others.
III. A King of Cleansing
Text: Matthew 21:12–13
Immediately after His "triumphal" entry, Jesus went to the Temple. He didn't go there to admire the architecture; He went to inspect the heart of the nation’s worship.
• Celo for Holiness: He found corruption where there should have been prayer. With divine authority, He overturned the tables.
• Personal Application: When Jesus enters a life, He demands a similar "house cleaning."
◦ A Radical Change: To be in Christ is to be a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
◦ The Pursuit of Purity: We are called to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1).
• The Standard: "Without holiness no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).
IV. A King of Wonders
Text: Matthew 21:14–15
While the religious leaders were fuming, Jesus was working. He turned the Temple from a marketplace into a place of healing.
• Confirmed Power: The blind received sight and the lame walked. These were the "credentials" of the Messiah (Matthew 11:2–5).
• Two Reactions: 1. The Multitude and Children: They cried "Hosanna!" with joy. 2. The Leaders: They were filled with "indignation."
• The Tragedy of Pride: The greatest tragedy in Jerusalem that day wasn't the people's poverty or Roman oppression; it was the religious leaders who saw wonders and remained spiritually blind.
See Also
- Reconciled with God: From Enemies to Friends
- Can Man Justify His Own Sins and Actions?
- What is the Older Women responsibility in the church?
Conclusion
The Triumphal Entry was a moment of victory and royal authority. Jesus didn't enter Jerusalem to satisfy people's curiosity; He entered to fulfill His mission as King. He is a King who reigns in humility, a King who disrupts our comfort, a King who demands our purity, and a King who still performs wonders in the lives of those who believe.
Final Thought: Jerusalem was "moved" by His presence. Is your heart moved by Him today?
