The Right Jesus for the Right Reasons John 12:12-19

Setting the Scene Events during Feast of Passover.Events during Feast of Passover. Huge crowds – 2.7 million perhaps.Huge crowds – 2.7 million perhaps. Two dramatic actions.Two dramatic actions.

Setting the Scene The CrowdsThe Crowds –Put palm branches and cloaks in the road. (Mark 11:8) –They began to shout. (v. 13)

Setting the Scene The CrowdThe Crowd –The palms signified national interests and the desire to rebel against the Romans. –They were also shouting. –From Psalm 118. Their application? (v. 13)

Setting the Scene JesusJesus –He secures a young donkey upon which to ride into Jerusalem. –He is not on a war horse. –Zechariah 9:9/ Isaiah 40:9

Setting the Scene He presents Himself in fulfillment ofHe presents Himself in fulfillment of –Zechariah 9:9 and Isaiah 40:9 –The coming of this King is associated with war’s cessation. –He is not simply for Israel but for the world. –His coming has to do with the blood of the covenant.

Applications We have developing here a conflict of visionWe have developing here a conflict of vision –They want a warrior king. –He rides on a donkey, challenges their spiritual leaders and pronounces judgment on Israel’s spiritual life. –By the end of the week they want Him killed.

Applications While we may be drawn to Jesus for many reasons, we must come to realize:While we may be drawn to Jesus for many reasons, we must come to realize: –Jesus is not someone we can add to our agendas to serve our purposes. –Jesus is not about self-fulfillment, helping us get along better in this world, making us “successful”.

Applications In His death and resurrection we see His agendaIn His death and resurrection we see His agenda –Death to self/repentance and trust in His blood. –Join Him in advancing His kingdom. –Join Him in challenging the values of this world.