Palm Sunday

PALM SUNDAY: THE KING COMES IN PEACE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 21:1–11

"And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest." — Matthew 21:9

Supporting Texts: Zechariah 9:9, John 12:12-16, Psalm 118:25-26, Revelation 19:11-16, Philippians 2:6-11

INTRODUCTION:

Palm Sunday marks the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, a journey that led to the fulfilment of God's redemptive plan for humanity. This event was not merely a political display but a prophetic moment filled with deep spiritual significance. As Jesus rode into the city on a donkey, He declared His identity as the Messiah and the Prince of Peace.

The people shouted "Hosanna," laying down their garments and palm branches in His path, signifying honour, celebration, and submission. Yet, this same crowd would later turn against Him. Palm Sunday reminds us not only of celebration but of the fickleness of human loyalty and the steadfastness of divine purpose.

This day calls every believer to reflect on the kind of welcome we give Jesus in our hearts. Do we truly honour Him as Lord and King, or do we only praise Him when it's convenient? Today, we explore what Palm Sunday teaches us about Christ, His mission, and our response.

1. JESUS ENTERED AS A HUMBLE KING

Though King of kings, Jesus chose a lowly donkey, fulfilling prophecy and modelling humility.

a) He fulfilled prophecy with deliberate humility

Zechariah 9:9 – Your King comes gentle and riding on a donkey.

b) He demonstrated that His kingdom is not of this world

John 18:36 – My kingdom is not of this world.

c) True greatness is clothed in humility

Philippians 2:6-8 – He humbled Himself...

d) God exalts those who embrace humility

James 4:10 – Humble yourselves... He shall lift you up.

Biblical Example: David

Though anointed king, David remained humble and honoured God's timing, even when pursued by Saul (1 Samuel 24:10-12).

2. THE CROWD’S PRAISE WAS LOUD BUT SHALLOW

Many shouted “Hosanna” with their lips but rejected Him with their hearts.

a) Praise without heart commitment is empty

Isaiah 29:13 – They honour Me with their lips...

b) Many celebrate Jesus for what He does, not for who He is

John 6:26 – You seek Me because of the loaves...

c) God desires true worship from sincere hearts

John 4:23 – True worshippers worship in spirit and truth.

d) Superficial praise turns to betrayal under pressure

Luke 23:21 – The same crowd cried, "Crucify Him!"

Biblical Example: The Israelites

They sang at the Red Sea (Exodus 15) but soon murmured in the wilderness (Exodus 16:2-3).

3. PALM SUNDAY REVEALS CHRIST’S MISSION OF PEACE

Jesus came not to wage war, but to bring peace between God and man.

a) He is the Prince of Peace foretold by the prophets

Isaiah 9:6 – Prince of Peace.

b) His mission was reconciliation, not rebellion

2 Corinthians 5:18 – God reconciled us to Himself...

c) Peace with God comes only through Christ

Romans 5:1 – Justified by faith, we have peace...

d) Christ calls us to be peacemakers in a divided world

Matthew 5:9 – Blessed are the peacemakers...

Biblical Example: Abigail

She made peace with David and saved her household (1 Samuel 25:18-35).

4. THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY WAS A PROPHETIC PICTURE

Palm Sunday symbolises the present reign of Christ and foreshadows His second coming.

a) It was a declaration of His Messianic identity

Matthew 21:5 – Tell the daughter of Zion...

b) He entered not just Jerusalem, but into His mission of sacrifice

Luke 9:51 – He set His face toward Jerusalem.

c) Palm branches symbolised victory and kingship

Revelation 7:9 – A great multitude with palm branches...

d) Jesus will come again—this time on a white horse

Revelation 19:11 – He comes to judge and make war.

Biblical Example: Joseph

His first appearance in Egypt was as a slave; his second, as a ruler (Genesis 41:39-43). Likewise, Christ came first in humility, and will return in glory.

5. OUR RESPONSE TO JESUS DETERMINES OUR DESTINY

Each person must choose: accept Him as King or reject Him to their peril.

a) Jesus must be Lord over every area of our lives

Romans 10:9 – Confess Him as Lord...

b) Salvation is a personal decision, not a group event

John 1:12 – To those who received Him...

c) Worship should lead to surrender, not just excitement

Romans 12:1 – Present your bodies...

d) Heaven rejoices over one soul that receives the King

Luke 15:7 – Joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.

Biblical Example: Zacchaeus

He received Jesus joyfully and surrendered his life (Luke 19:1-10).

CONCLUSION:

Palm Sunday is a call to honour Jesus not just with celebration but with consecration. His entry into Jerusalem is a reminder that He seeks entry into our hearts. Let your “Hosanna” be backed with holy living and total surrender.