Palm Sunday 2025

Community Group Discussion Guide for the Week of April 13, 2025

Miss this week’s teaching? You can watch it here.

# Summary

This Palm Sunday sermon explores the historical and spiritual context and significance of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Pastor Jim draws parallels between Jesus and Judas Maccabee, explaining how the Jews' expectations of a political or economic savior differed from Jesus' true mission to save the world from sin. He emphasizes that while many people had specific expectations of what Jesus should do for them, His sacrifice on the cross and the gift of eternal salvation should be 'enough' for us as believers.

# Intro Prayer

Lord, we come before you today asking that you would open our hearts and minds to understand the true significance of Palm Sunday. Help us to see beyond our own expectations and desires, and to appreciate the magnificent gift of salvation you've given us through Jesus Christ. Guide our discussion and help us grow closer to you through our time together. Amen

# Ice Breaker

What's the most meaningful gift you've ever received and why was it so special to you?

# Key Verses

  • John 12:12-15

  • John 19:16

  • John 12:1-8

# Questions

  • What were the Jewish people's expectations of Jesus when He entered Jerusalem, and how did these differ from His actual mission?

  • Why do you think the same people who shouted 'Hosanna!' later shouted 'Crucify Him!'?

  • What expectations do you have of Jesus in your own life?

  • How does understanding the historical context of Palm Sunday deepen your appreciation of this event?

  • In what ways might our own expectations of Jesus sometimes get in the way of accepting what He actually wants to do in our lives?

  • The sermon suggests that salvation alone should be 'enough' - what are your thoughts on this statement?

  • How can we maintain our faith when God doesn't meet our expectations in the way we hope?

  • What does it mean to you personally that Jesus chose to enter Jerusalem knowing He would die?

# Life Application

This week, take time to reflect on your expectations of God. Write down your current expectations and prayers, then write down all the ways God has already shown His faithfulness in your life. Focus on being grateful for what He has already done, especially in providing salvation, rather than solely focusing on what you want Him to do.

# Key Takeaways

  • Jesus came not as a political savior but as a spiritual savior for the whole world

  • Our expectations of Jesus should not overshadow the sufficiency of His sacrifice for our salvation

  • Faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone is the path to salvation

  • The resurrection of Jesus validates everything He said and did

  • God's grace gives us not only mercy (not getting what we deserve) but also blessings we don't deserve

# Ending Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Help us to remember that Your grace is sufficient and Your sacrifice is enough. Guide us to trust in Your perfect plan even when it doesn't match our expectations. May we live in gratitude for what You've already done rather than always seeking more. In Jesus' name, Amen.

1 CorinthiansPastor Jason MookMTN CHURCH