Pastor Matt talked about the different types of saviors that people, ancient and modern, would like Jesus to be — versus the one He actually is.
MY STORY
Describe an anticipated event fueled by eager hopefulness turned into disappointing frustration.
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written,
"Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!"
(John 12:12-19; 37-50)
Pastor Matt asked, "What in the world did Jesus see when he looked over Jerusalem? What led him to weep over the city? Why do we celebrate, and Jesus cries?"
Since some in the crowed had seen Jesus, while others only heard of Him, how did this news give additional intensity to an already growing level of enthusiasm?
What mistaken notion would not only disappoint, but would next turn some from a praising crowd to a mass of opposition and hostility?
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passage and the questions above, what "takeaways" do you think God has revealed to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
Considering that Jesus' closest friends felt confusion amid the mayhem, what can we see in these verses as a reminder and aid for finding focus in our own turmoil?
Share how confusion, that may arise at the beginning of a relationship with Jesus, can gain understanding with hearing His word, growing familiar with His activities, and spending time in worship with others who know Him.
When we review our own pathway to growth in faith and trust, then how does confidence in God's planned purpose for lives become renewed and strengthened?
When or where do our interactions provide for a demonstration of encouragement and affirmation with a reflection of Christ' real position of authority?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit's leading, call us to?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Pastor Matt said, "Which gate are you standing at? We get pulled into this narrative that wants us to celebrate war, I think our thirst for power, influence, and a particular kind of security would cause Jesus to lament over our cities and our country. I think far too much of our American culture has us standing at the west side of Jerusalem, not the east."
What would it take for you to move from one gate to the other?
If you are a seasoned follower of Christ, think back to the beginning – when you first realized who Jesus really is. Recall what excited you, and what seemed confusing.
Assess how it is possible to be patient or steadfast when diverse questions arise, especially for other people, that may never have occurred in your own journey.
While recognizing doubt, choose a believer you trust as a prayerful partner for guidance or counsel. Even when your internal debate seems intense, see how no question is greater than God's power to provide clarification.
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you, personally, toward?
Message Notes
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