Palm Sunday reminds us that Jesus didn’t enter Jerusalem to fulfill popular expectations—but to accomplish God’s greater redemptive plan. In this episode, Pastor Chris walks us through Matthew 21:1–11 and invites us to reflect on how Jesus chose a donkey over a warhorse, humility over spectacle, and God’s promises over human assumptions. Be encouraged to trust Jesus’ plan even when life surprises you—and to respond with genuine worship.
Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16970920
Key Points:
- Jesus Prepares Every Detail of His Plan – Jesus carefully orchestrated His entrance into Jerusalem, fulfilling Zechariah 9:9. The donkey wasn’t random—it symbolized humility, peace, and God’s control over every detail (Matt. 21:1–3; Zech. 9:9; Psalm 33:11).
- Jesus Fulfills God’s Promises, Not Our Assumptions – The crowd expected a political revolution. But Jesus fulfilled prophecy on His terms, not theirs. What if He had come on a warhorse, golden chariot, or with angelic fanfare? Each would have sent the wrong message—Jesus came to redeem, not impress (Matt. 21:4–5).
- Jesus Invites a Response of Trust and Praise – The people shouted “Hosanna,” a cry for rescue and a declaration of trust (Matt. 21:9; Psalm 118:25). Real worship means surrendering our control and trusting God's plan, even when it doesn’t make sense.
- Jesus Is Still Preparing for His Return – From preparing a place in heaven (John 14:2) to preparing His Church (Eph. 5:27), and aligning the world for His return (Matt. 24:14; Rom. 11:26), Jesus is actively working. We are called to trust, serve, and live with expectation.
Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
Pastor Chris shares how God provided for him in unexpected ways—both in marriage and ministry—and how God's plan often looks different (and better) than we imagine. He also reflects on the unique opportunities Rockwell Church has to reach its community and make a global impact through simple faithfulness.
Notable Quotes:
- “Jesus fulfills God’s promises—not our assumptions.”
- “What if Jesus came on a warhorse? He would have impressed the crowds, but missed the cross.”
- “Hosanna isn’t just a cry for help—it’s a declaration that Jesus is our only hope.”
Actionable Takeaways:
- What area of your life do you need to surrender to Jesus' greater plan?
- Reflect on how Jesus may be working in ways you don’t expect.
- Cry out “Hosanna”—not just for rescue, but in full trust of His leadership.
- Worship with hope, even when life doesn’t go according to your script.
Scripture References:
- Matthew 21:1–11 – Jesus’ humble and prophetic entry into Jerusalem.
- Zechariah 9:9 – Prophecy about the King coming on a donkey.
- Psalm 33:11 – God's plans endure through generations.
- Psalm 118:25–26 – “Lord, save us! Blessed is he who comes…”
- John 14:2–3 – Jesus is preparing a place for His people.
- Ephesians 5:27 – Jesus is preparing His radiant bride, the Church.
- Matthew 24:14 – The Gospel will be preached worldwide.
- Romans 11:26 – God's promise of Israel's spiritual awakening.
Keywords:
Palm Sunday, Hosanna, Jesus Triumphal Entry, Trust God, Matthew 21, Humble King, God’s Greater Plan, Prophecy Fulfilled, Christian Hope, Worship in Uncertainty
The WELL Faith Podcast shares practical, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien to help you worship, encourage, learn, and love in everyday life. A new message is released every Sunday. Episodes marked with an asterisk (*) are replay episodes from previous years. Find resources at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN, and follow and review the podcast on your favorite listening platform.
