Introduction

Today, we will be exploring the story of Palm Sunday as told by the Apostle John. The main idea we will be focusing on is the question of who Jesus is in our lives. Is He our King? And if so, what does that mean for us?

The Arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem

Let's start by going back to John 12:12-36. In this passage, we see that Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem and a great crowd has gathered for the Feast. They hear about Jesus' arrival and go out to meet him, carrying palm branches and shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel!"

Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy, finds a young donkey and sits upon it. This act symbolizes his role as the King of Israel. However, at this point, his disciples do not fully understand the significance of what is happening. It is only after Jesus is glorified that they realize that these events were written about him.

The Spread of Jesus' Fame

The crowd that witnessed Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead continues to spread the word about him. Many people, having heard about this miraculous sign, come out to meet him. The Pharisees, seeing this, become frustrated and remark that their efforts to stop Jesus are getting them nowhere. They observe how the whole world seems to be following him.

Interestingly, there are also Greeks among those who have come to worship at the Feast. They approach Philip and express their desire to see Jesus. Philip then tells Andrew, and together they bring the request to Jesus.

This inclusion of the Greeks is significant because it shows that Jesus is not just the King of the Jews but also of the Greeks and even the Romans. He is a King for all people, regardless of their background or nationality.

Jesus' Purpose and Glorification

At this point, it seems like everything is falling into place for a "happily ever after" ending. The crowd, the disciples, and even the Greeks all expect Jesus to reign as a triumphant King. But there is one key player who knows the true story, and that is Jesus himself.

In John 12:23-33, Jesus reveals that the hour has come for him to be glorified. He uses the analogy of a kernel of wheat falling to the ground and dying to produce many seeds. He explains that those who love their life in this world will lose it, but those who hate their life will keep it for eternal life.

Jesus acknowledges that his heart is troubled, but he knows that he cannot ask to be saved from this hour. He came for this very reason, to fulfill his purpose. He asks God to glorify His name, and a voice from heaven responds, affirming that it has been glorified and will be glorified again.

Jesus goes on to say that now is the time for judgment on this world and that the prince of this world will be driven out. He then declares that when he is lifted up, he will draw all people to himself. This statement refers to both his crucifixion and his exaltation.

The Crowd's Confusion

The crowd, however, does not fully grasp the meaning behind Jesus' words. They question how the Christ can remain forever if the Son of Man must be lifted up. They are confused about who this Son of Man truly is.

Conclusion

This brings us to the most powerful question of all: Who is Jesus in our lives? Have we figured out who he truly is? And if so, what difference has it made in our lives?

As we reflect on the story of Palm Sunday, let us consider these questions. Is Jesus our King? And if he is, what does that mean for us? Are we willing to let go of our own desires and follow him? Are we willing to trust in his plan, even when it doesn't align with our expectations?

May we all take the time to truly understand who Jesus is and allow him to reign as our King in every aspect of our lives.

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