This sermon explores the significance of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the importance of worshiping God with joy and abandon. It reflects on personal experiences of celebration and the call to prioritize Jesus in our lives.
Good morning, church! Welcome to Kings Way. If you're visiting with us, we're super glad you're here today. We've been studying the Book of Luke for a couple of years now, and we're excited to finish it over the next couple of months as we approach Easter. Today, we will explore a powerful moment in the life of Jesus that highlights the joy of worship and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Have you ever been so caught up in a moment that you celebrated with relentless abandon? I remember a time from my childhood when I was burned out from year-round sports. After deciding not to play baseball one season, I changed my mind and joined a team that wasn't very good. However, we made an incredible run to the championship game. In a pivotal moment, I made an unexpected catch that led to a double play, and we won the game. My dad, usually not very expressive, stormed onto the field, and I jumped into his arms. It was a powerful moment of joy and celebration.
This brings us to today's text in Luke 19:28. After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. The term "up" refers to the elevation, as Jerusalem is situated on a hill. As Jesus approached Beth Page and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples to fetch a colt that had never been ridden. This act was significant, as it fulfilled Old Testament prophecy.
It's crucial to read scripture in context. Jesus instructed his disciples to say, "The Lord needs it" if anyone questioned them about untying the colt. This phrase was not a license for theft; it was a fulfillment of prophecy. During Passover, Jerusalem swelled with visitors, making this moment even more significant.
The act of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled the prophecy found in Zechariah 9:9, which states, "Rejoice greatly, daughter Zion! Shout, daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey." This was not a random choice; it was a deliberate act to fulfill every prophecy about him.
Scholars estimate that Jesus fulfilled over 300 prophecies, with the odds of fulfilling just eight being 1 in 100 quadrillion. This staggering number highlights the miraculous nature of Jesus' life and mission. The disciples, unaware of the full significance of their actions, obeyed Jesus and brought the colt to him.
As Jesus rode along, the disciples spread their cloaks on the road, and the crowd began joyfully praising God for all the miracles they had seen. This moment of worship was spontaneous and authentic, reflecting their excitement and gratitude for what Jesus had done.
The activity of God inspires the people of God to worship. Just as the crowd celebrated Jesus' arrival, we too should respond to God's goodness in our lives with joy and praise. The disciples shouted, "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!" This was a direct quote from Psalm 118:26, further emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy.
However, not everyone was pleased. The Pharisees, feeling threatened by Jesus' popularity, asked him to rebuke his disciples. Jesus replied, "If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out." This statement underscores the idea that creation itself recognizes its Creator and cannot remain silent.
Despite the overwhelming evidence of Jesus' miracles, some still choose not to believe. This serves as a reminder for us to remain humble and open to the truth of who Jesus is. We must not trade the glory of God for created things, as Paul warns in Romans 1.
Jesus is worthy of our worship because he is the Creator of all things. Everything exists through him and for him. As we reflect on our lives, we must ask ourselves: what do we prioritize? Are we willing to make Jesus the center of our lives?
As we move forward, I challenge you to prioritize worship in your life. Consider making Sunday gatherings and additional time for worship a regular part of your week. Jesus deserves our time and attention above all else.
In closing, let us remember that Jesus is worthy of our praise. As we worship him with relentless abandon, may we reflect on his goodness and the fulfillment of his promises. Let us stand together and offer our hearts, souls, minds, and strength to the one who alone is worthy. Amen.
