Lecture Notes: Palm Sunday Sermon
Introduction
- Opening prayer seeking guidance from the Lord.
- Mention of recent Lenten lessons focused on Jesus' journey to the cross.
Jesus' Journey to the Cross
- Jesus predicted his death and rebuked Peter for his denial.
- Mary anointed Jesus, preparing for his death and burial.
- Judas' betrayal was discussed as an inside job.
Palm Sunday
- Significance: Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, marking the last week before crucifixion.
- All gospel writers record this event (Matthew 21, Mark 11, John 12, Luke 19).
- Focus on Luke's account (Luke 19:29-40).
Scripture Reading: Luke 19:29-40 (NIV)
- Jesus instructs disciples to find a colt for his entry.
- Disciples find colt as Jesus instructed.
- Jesus rides the colt; people spread cloaks on the road and praise God.
- Pharisees object to the disciples' praises.
- Jesus declares that if his disciples are silent, the stones will cry out.
Sermon Theme: "You Don't Have the Right to Remain Silent"
- Analogy to Miranda rights: right to remain silent when arrested.
- Contrast: As Christians, the duty is to speak and praise God.
Reasons for Praise
- For What God Has Done (Hallelujah Crowd)
- Miracles performed by Jesus.
- Personal testimonies of how God has worked in lives.
- For What We Need (Hosanna Crowd)
- Prayer for God's intervention.
- Trust in God’s ability to provide and meet needs.
- For Who God Is
- Worship God for His divine nature, not just blessings or needs.
- Affirmation of God's eternal attributes and majesty.
Reactions to Praise
- Pharisees' attempt to silence praise.
- Jesus' response: Praise cannot be stopped.
- Even inanimate creation, like rocks, would cry out if necessary.
The Significance of the Stones
- Broken but Strong: Stones as pieces of mountains, broken yet strong.
- Rejected yet Redeemed: Stones metaphor for rejection but chosen by God (Psalm 118).
Personal Reflection
- Personal testimony akin to recycled materials: once discarded, now renewed.
- Importance of recognizing one's value and purpose in God's eyes.
Conclusion
- Encouragement to praise and value oneself, regardless of past rejections.
- Call to join a community that recognizes and uplifts God-given value.
These notes capture the key points and themes of the sermon delivered on Palm Sunday, emphasizing the significance of praise, the triumphal entry of Jesus, and the value of individuals in God's plan.