This weekend, we will be examining Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem, also known as Palm Sunday, which is recorded in Matthew 21. This is a very significant event in the life of Jesus, because this is the first time in His earthly ministry that He allowed others to praise Him publicly. Previously, when people were healed by Jesus, they wanted to go and tell everyone they knew about Jesus and His power to heal. Yet time and time again, Jesus would ask them not to tell anyone, saying, “My time had not yet come”.

But on this day, Jesus no longer constrained the praises of the people. He accepted it all, for the time of His coronation had come. On this day, Jesus declared "I am your Lord and King". On this day, Jesus essentially said, "From this day forward, I welcome your praise and worship".

So, what does it mean to worship God and why does God want our worship? Is there worship that is pleasing to God and worship that isn't? Even more importantly, who or what are we really worshiping? Our study of the Palm Sunday narrative will reveal answers to these questions and more.

In preparation, please read Matthew 21: 1-17; Mark 11: 1-11; Luke 19: 28-48; John 12: 1-19.