The Triumph That Is Yet To Come – Matthew 21:1-11 – Ed Kennedy

Short Summary

On Palm Sunday, Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem not as a conquering king, but as a humble Savior riding on a donkey—fulfilling prophecy and revealing His mission to give His life for the world. While the crowd longed for deliverance, many misunderstood His purpose. This message invites us to consider who Jesus truly is and whether we are ready for His return—not just as Savior, but as the coming King.

Key Themes / Takeaways

1. A Different Kind of King

Jesus Christ did not enter Jerusalem in power and spectacle, but in humility—fulfilling Book of Zechariah 9:9. He came not to conquer nations, but to surrender Himself for our sins.

The Setting of Palm Sunday

This moment took place after a deliberate journey from the region of Sea of Galilee through Jericho and up to Jerusalem—perfectly timed according to prophecy.

2. Fulfilled Prophecy, Perfect Timing

The entry into Jerusalem happened exactly as foretold in:

• Book of Zechariah
• Book of Daniel

God’s plan was precise—down to the very day.

3. Not a Triumph—Yet

Unlike a Roman triumph, Jesus’ entry was not about victory through force.

Contrast: Roman Triumph vs. Christ’s Entry

• Roman generals came in power, glory, and conquest
• Jesus came in humility, surrender, and sacrifice

This was not the triumph—it was the path to the cross.

4. The Crowd’s Confusion

The people cried “Hosanna” (save now), recognizing their need—but misunderstanding the nature of their salvation.

They called Him:

• The Son of David (Messiah)
• A prophet

But many failed to fully recognize Him as Savior and King.

5. The Mission: Surrender, Not Conquest

As foretold in Book of Isaiah 53:

• He was pierced for our transgressions
• He bore our sin
• He came as the Lamb

Jesus didn’t come to defeat Rome—He came to defeat sin and death.

6. A Second Coming Is Still Ahead

The true triumphal entry is still to come.

The Coming King

According to:

• Book of Revelation
• Epistle to the Hebrews

Jesus will return:

• In power and glory
• With justice and righteousness
• As King of Kings and Lord of Lords

7. The Question That Matters Most

The same question remains today:

Who do you say that He is?

True readiness begins with:

• Acknowledging your need (Hosanna—save me)
• Recognizing Jesus as Savior and King
• Humbly surrendering your life to Him

Closing Application

God’s kingdom works differently than the world:

• We surrender first → then receive glory
• We humble ourselves → then are lifted up

Palm Sunday reminds us that salvation came through surrender—and calls us to respond in the same way.