Jesus’ Triumphal Entry (The Gospels)
Dear families,
All four Gospels offer a glimpse into the joy that overtook the crowds of Jerusalem as King Jesus made His way through the city gates. The events that would take place in the city just one week later would starkly contrast to the high-spirited festivities of Jesus’ triumphal entry. In His sovereignty, Christ knew He would face crucifixion at the hands of His own people; yet He willingly approached the cross for our salvation.
What was the significance of the people’s shouts for the King and His coming kingdom? What do we learn about Christ’s heart for the lost?
Crowds poured into Jerusalem to celebrate Passover, and many of them participated in creating a grand entrance for Jesus. They waved palm branches, a symbol of pride for the Jews, and called out for their new King to usher in a new reign for God’s people. They had heard reports of how He raised Lazarus from the dead and were eager to see His next miracle. Yet, they misunderstood the purpose of His entry into the holy city—it was not to overthrow their oppressors but to offer salvation to all who would turn to Him in faith. They sought a mighty conqueror in Jesus, not knowing that the Father would instead send a Suffering Servant to be sacrificed on their behalf. They wanted an earthly king to reign amid their difficult circumstances, not a Messiah who would be publicly humiliated on a cross. Despite what His people desired, God knew what His people needed and sent His Son to save them.
As Jesus approached the city, He wept for it—knowing the fate that would soon befall Him and the great price He would pay to establish peace between God and man. We later see His heart for the lost as He pleaded for the Father to forgive the people’s sins. What God’s people didn’t know then is the story we get to proclaim now: Christ died for sinners! Lead the children in your care to see that Jesus is greater than our earthly rulers and worldly desires. He is the sovereign Savior and Lord who has already paid the price for our greatest need: salvation!
Check out The Gospel Project At Home for resources designed to help you lead a family worship experience as well as suggestions for morning and evening prayer times and family activities.
FAMILY TALKING POINTS
CHRIST CONNECTION
This is the big idea of how this week’s Bible story points to Jesus.
Babies & Toddlers: God sent Jesus to be our King. When we believe in Him, He will save us from our sins.
Younger Preschool: Jesus is our special King and Savior. Trusting in Jesus means loving Him. If we love Him, He will forgive us and give us life with Him forever.
Older Preschool: The people welcomed Jesus as King, but Jesus knew the people would not welcome Him as their Savior. Trusting in Jesus means welcoming Him as Savior and Lord. If we know and love Him, He will forgive our sin and give us life with Him forever.
Kids: The people welcomed Jesus as King, but they did not recognize Him as their Savior. Jesus calls all people to trust in Him as Savior and Lord. When we do, we will be saved from sin and death.
BIG PICTURE QUESTION & ANSWER
This is an important biblical truth that your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Younger Preschool: What is repentance? Repentance is turning away from sin and turning to Jesus.
Older Preschool: What is repentance? Repentance is turning away from sin and turning to Jesus.
Kids: What is repentance? Repentance is turning away from sin and turning to Jesus.
KEY PASSAGE
This is a Bible verse that relates to what your child will encounter each week of this unit.
Babies & Toddlers: If we pray, God will hear and forgive our sins. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Younger Preschool: If my people pray and turn from sin, I will forgive them. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Older Preschool: [If] my people pray and turn from their evil ways, then I will forgive their sin. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Kids: [If] my people, who bear my name, humble themselves, pray and seek my face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14