Preparing for the Lord's Day
Palm Sunday
As we gather this Palm Sunday, we reflect upon the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The streets of David’s city were filled with shouts of ‘Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ Yet, as the people waved their palm branches as a sign of their allegiance to this coming king, a deeper question lingered: Who is this King? This simple yet profound question calls us to reflect on what we believe about this King named Jesus. This King comes not on a mighty warhorse but on a humble donkey. Who comes not to sit on a throne but to hang on a cross. As we reflect upon this celebration of Jesus’ journey into Jerusalem, let us prepare our hearts to explore the depths of who He truly is, looking with eyes of faith beyond the now to the not yet, through the seen to the unseen. So that we might answer the question: Who is this King who comes in the name of the Lord?
In our text for this Sunday, we turn to Matthew 16:13-18. Jesus brought his disciples to the region of Caesarea Philippi to prepare them for the next stage of his ministry. From this point onward, he will be heading toward the city of Jerusalem to offer his life as a sacrifice for sin and rise triumphantly on the third day. But before this journey begins, he seeks to clarify his true identity with his disciples. There can be no ambiguity on this point. Those who follow Jesus must understand that he is not merely a teacher or a prophet but indeed the Christ, the Son of the living God. And just like the disciples, if we are to follow Jesus today, we too must have this question firmly settled. Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?” The answer you give is the most important of your life. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and meditate upon Matthew 16:13-18, John 17:3, 1 Corinthians 2:10-13, Ephesians 2:1-5, James 2:19, and this article on Palm Sunday.
As we gather to worship our Humble King this Palm Sunday, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Processional Hymn “All Glory, Laud, and Honor,” the Acclamation of Praise “O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus!” and the Hymn of Response “Lift High the Cross.” Let us come to worship this Sunday prepared to hear God’s Word, to receive it in faith, to love and treasure it in our hearts, and to practice it in our lives that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him!
Sermon Information:
Text: Matthew 16:13-18
Title: The Most Important Question
Outline:
- Who do the People say He is?
- Who does God say He is?
- Who do you say He is?