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BibleProject | One Story That Leads to JesusSample

BibleProject | One Story That Leads to Jesus

DAY 276 OF 358

Despite everything they’ve learned from Jesus about the evil-destroying power of humility, love, and care for the vulnerable, the disciples begin speculating that God’s Kingdom is about to appear with military might and political power. Luke doesn’t say Jesus rolled his eyes at this point, but that feels likely.

With patience, Jesus tries to help them see reality through a parable about a nobleman soon to become king. Harsh and biting at times, Jesus’ strategic story shatters any visions of grandeur or military victory. His point is that the religious leaders will reject him, but God will empower his followers to carry on his work until he returns.

Jesus isn’t denying that he’s the true, victorious king. But his big victory will not happen like the disciples imagine. They will wage their battle with lovingkindness and healing, not swords and thrones.

True to humble-king form, Jesus rides a donkey colt (not a warhorse) into Jerusalem, where palm branches and praises honor his new reign. He’s making a royal claim. Zechariah foretold that Israel’s king would arrive the same way (Zech. 9:9). Normally, a king would celebrate his coronation moment. Not this king.

As Jesus rides into the city, he weeps. He knows the Roman Empire will inevitably destroy the temple and crush Jerusalem. He also knows that many in the crowds who today sing, “Blessed is the king!” (Luke 19:38) will turn on him within the week and instead chant, “Crucify! Crucify!” (Luke 23:21).

Watch today’s video for a preview of Jesus’ final week in Jerusalem. His intensely loving confrontation with Israel’s religious leaders ends up being a showdown with death itself.

Reflection Questions

  • How does Jesus’ “triumphant” entrance into Jerusalem reflect the values of his kingdom? Why do you think his message of peace was so hard for his followers to grasp?
  • Compare Jesus’ royal entrance to the royal procession described in 1 Kings 1:28-53. How does Solomon’s entrance parallel or differ from Jesus’? What does it make you think or wonder about Jesus’ kingship?

About this Plan

BibleProject | One Story That Leads to Jesus

Read through the Bible in one year with BibleProject! One Story That Leads to Jesus includes daily devotional content, reflection questions, and more than 150 animated videos to bring biblical books and themes to life. Join the growing community around the globe who are learning to see the Bible as one unified story that leads to Jesus.

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We would like to thank BibleProject for creating this plan. For more information, please visit: www.bibleproject.com