Matthew 21:4-5…Ready

Matthew 21:4-5…Ready

21:4  This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet 5 “Say to the Daughter of Zion,‘ See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” (For Complete Expository See Book)

Extended Sermons

“Teaches how Jesus didn’t come to punish & discipline, but to rescue and Save.” → Jesus’ kingship is not like Caesar, or Alexander the Great. His presidency is not like the presidency of the United States. Jesus is not a King who’s going to rule with an iron fits. He’s not going to tax you with a bunch of rules and rituals. He’s not going to rule with fear and intimidation, but with love and compassion.

“Teaches how God is true to His Word. (If God is faithful to His promises in the past, He’s faithful to His Word today.” ⇒ It is estimated that there are over 300 prophecies from the Old Testament that were fulfilled by Jesus. In fact, Peter Stoner, a mathematician, said that just one person fulfilling eight of those 300 plus prophecies. Would be the odds of one in ten, to the 17th power. That’s one with 17 zeros after. Which would be a huge and astronomical number, like a Quadrillion.

“Teaches if you want to  know what it means to walk in humility and peace look to King Jesus.” →The example of King Jesus offers a profound lesson in humility and peace. As we navigate the complexities of life, we are reminded to look towards His example, which embodies the essence of meekness, love, and forgiveness.

“Displays how Jesus often comes to us in a surprising and unexpecting ways we’re unprepared for” ⇒  We all have preconceived ideas about Jesus and how we believe He should rule and act. We expect Jesus to reign in a certain way, according to our understanding and desires. We expect Jesus to ride in and solve all are problems, make all our bills go away, give us our best life now. However, Jesus often surprises us in going a different direction, addressing our needs in ways we never imagined. This encourages us to remain open and receptive, trusting in His divine guidance and wisdom, even when it defies our expectations. By embracing this surprise, we can experience the fullness of His love and grace in our lives.

“Even today, Jesus often comes to us off script. Don’t miss it when Jesus comes to you in unusual ways, or in ways you didn’t expect or imagined. Will you accept Jesus no matter how He shows up?” ⇒  Often times were looking for Jesus in a season of great success and triumph. When it turns out He draws near to us in a season of trial and defeat. We often think Jesus has to work this way. When He often works in ways we haven’t even conceived of. Jesus often works in situations and people we never thought would amount to anything. He comes to upset expectations, and if we’re not along for that ride we’re going to miss Jesus. Will you receive Jesus just as He comes?

Additional Notes & Applications

Inspires confidence in Scripture, showing how the Bible’s teachings are interconnected and purposeful.

Teaches how faithful and blind obedience to Christ’s command often fulfills prophecy without even knowing it.

Challenges believers in taking the lowly place, instead of the place of self-exaltation.

Teaches how there is nothing we need to be afraid of in this life that Jesus can’t forgive.

Teaches how it’s not what you own or how successful a person you= are that makes you great in God’s eyes, but how meek and humble you are.

In context Zachariah’s prophesy is speaking of God’s promise to judge the nations surrounding Judah. He would subdue them to prevent them from oppressing His covenant people. He would also find a remnant among them who would worship Him. In our passage, He announced the advent of the long-awaited king, a future Davidic ruler who would cease wars and bring peace to the world. Such good news prompted God to issue a command to His covenant people, saying, Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! (v 9).

Notice when Matthew quoted the passage of Zachariah he left out part of the prophesy that says “Rejoice greatly Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem“. Which you would think, well, that’s odd. Isn’t this the time when people will be shouting, praising, and rejoicing in Jesus arrival as KIng. That yes there would be great fanfare at Jesus’ arrival on Palm Sunday as He rode into Jerusalem. But Matthew also knew how the week would unfold with the cries of “Crucify Him”. Matthew also leaves out “He is righteous and having salvation”. That yes Jesus came to Save and show grace. But many rejected Him. Later When Jesus returns He will bring Salvation to those who repent and justice and judgment to those who continue in rebellion.

HOW JESUS IS NOT LIKE EARTHLY KINGS

1. Humility: Unlike many earthly kings who are often proud and seek to elevate themselves, Jesus is known for his humility. He washed the feet of his disciples, demonstrating servant leadership

2. Love and Compassion: Jesus ruled with love and compassion, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and showing mercy to sinners. His kingdom is built on love rather than fear

3. Spiritual Kingdom: While earthly kings rule over physical territories, Jesus spoke of a spiritual kingdom not built by human hands

4. Sacrifice: Jesus sacrificed himself for the salvation of humanity, a stark contrast to kings who often demand sacrifices from their subjects

5. Forgiveness: Jesus emphasized forgiveness and repentance, offering grace to those who turn to him

6. Eternal Reign: Unlike earthly kings whose reigns are temporary, Jesus is believed to rule eternally