Palm Sunday: The Triumphal Entry

PALM SUNDAY: THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Mark 11:9

"And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord." –

Supporting Texts:

Matthew 21:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, Zechariah 9:9, John 12:12-19, Philippians 2:9-11

INTRODUCTION

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week and commemorates Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. As He rode on a donkey, multitudes gathered, waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna!” in praise and expectation. This moment signified the fulfilment of prophecy and the revelation of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah.

The crowd’s excitement was driven by their hope that Jesus would deliver them from Roman oppression. However, their misunderstanding of His mission became evident when many of the same voices later cried, “Crucify Him!” Palm Sunday is a call to reflect on our own understanding of Christ’s kingship—are we following Him for who He truly is or for what we expect Him to do for us?

As we explore the significance of Palm Sunday, we will see how it teaches us about worship, humility, prophecy fulfilment, and Christ’s ultimate mission of redemption.

1. JESUS FULFILLED PROPHECY

a) Zechariah’s prophecy was fulfilled (Zechariah 9:9)

Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, just as the prophet foretold.

b) The people recognised Jesus as the promised King (Matthew 21:9)

They cried, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” acknowledging His kingship.

c) The event revealed God’s divine plan (Luke 19:38)

The crowds unknowingly declared the fulfilment of God's promise.

d) Jesus came in peace, not as a warrior (John 12:15)

Unlike earthly kings who rode horses for battle, Jesus chose a donkey, symbolising peace.

e) Biblical Example: The Wise Men’s Recognition (Matthew 2:1-2)

Just as the Magi worshipped Jesus at birth, the crowd now worshipped Him as King.

2. THE PEOPLE CELEBRATED BUT MISUNDERSTOOD HIM

a) The crowd expected a political king (John 6:15)

Many thought Jesus would overthrow Roman rule.

b) Their praise was based on temporary expectations (Luke 19:37)

They celebrated because of His miracles, not because they understood His mission.

c) Many turned against Him later (Matthew 27:22-23)

Days after praising Him, they demanded His crucifixion.

d) Jesus knew their hearts (John 2:24-25)

He did not trust their fickle devotion.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites’ Changing Attitude (Exodus 16:2-3)

Just as the Israelites praised God after the Red Sea but later complained, so did this crowd.

3. WORSHIP MUST BE GENUINE

a) True worship is not based on emotions (John 4:23-24)

God seeks worshippers who honour Him in spirit and truth.

b) Worship must be centred on who Jesus is, not just what He does (Psalm 100:3-4)

We praise Him because He is Lord, not only for His miracles.

c) Jesus deserves our worship at all times (Philippians 2:9-11)

Every knee will bow to Him, whether in praise or in judgment.

d) We must not be like those who honour Him with lips but deny Him in their hearts (Matthew 15:8)

Worship without true devotion is meaningless.

e) Biblical Example: The Woman with the Alabaster Jar (Luke 7:37-38)

She worshipped Jesus out of love and gratitude, not because of public opinion.

4. JESUS CAME TO SAVE, NOT TO CONQUER EARTHLY KINGDOMS

a) His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36)

Jesus came to establish a spiritual kingdom, not a political one.

b) The cross, not a throne, was His mission (Mark 10:45)

He came to serve and give His life as a ransom for many.

c) Salvation comes through faith in Him (Romans 10:9-10)

A true follower accepts Him as Lord and Saviour, not just as a miracle worker.

d) The real victory was over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)

His mission was to defeat the enemy of our souls, not the Romans.

e) Biblical Example: The Conversation with Pilate (John 18:33-37)

Jesus declared that His kingdom is not of this world, proving His true mission.

CONCLUSION

Palm Sunday reminds us of the importance of recognising Jesus for who He truly is—our Saviour and King. Many in the crowd praised Him out of excitement but later rejected Him when He did not meet their expectations. We must learn from their mistake and ensure that our faith is rooted in the truth of God’s Word, not just in personal desires.

As we celebrate Palm Sunday, let us not only wave palm branches but surrender our hearts fully to Jesus. Let our worship be genuine, our faith unwavering, and our commitment to Christ enduring. Jesus is the King who came in humility but will return in glory—may we be found faithful when He comes again!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, open my eyes to see You as my true King.

2. Father, help me to worship You in spirit and truth.

3. Lord, give me a heart that remains steadfast in faith.

4. Father, deliver me from following You only for material gain.

5. Lord, prepare me for Your second coming.