The Triumphal Entry

by Graeme Young - [printer version]

When Jesus rode into Jerusalem (see Matthew 21:1-17), it was a wonderful time of Family Worship - a large gathering of all ages having a great time with Jesus. When organising Family Services (or all-age worship times) you could apply the same principles that helped to make Jesus' triumphant entry to Jerusalem a special occasion.

1. It began with the 'organisers' hearing from Jesus

-vl Jesus sent two disciples

-v6 The disciples went and did as Jesus instructed

2. There was an appropriate biblical foundation for everything in the programme.

-V5 Say to the Daugther of Zion, See your King comes to you gentle end riding on a donkey

3. The 'worship leaders' had prepared so that everything that was needed was there, and then they led by example.

-v7 They brought the donkey and the colt... they placed their cloaks on them

4. There was opportunity for a variety of active participation by everyone there

-V8 spread their cloaks on the road; cut down branches; crowds went ahead, and those who followed shouted...

5. The Word of God was shared concisely and in ways relevant for the situation

-v9 Son of David - who Jesus is; Hosanna - what he came to do (save now)

-V13 My house will be called a house of prayer but you are making it a den of thieves (Isaiah 56:7, Jeremiah 7:11)

-v16 Have you never heard 'From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise' (Psalm 8:2)

6. The focus of everything was clearly on Jesus and led others around to ask about him

-v10 The whole city was stirred and asked 'who is this?'

7. Things which were not appropriate for the occasion were shifted out of the way

v-12,13 Jesus drove out those buying and selling and overturned the tables of the money changers

8. There was time for prayer, and for joyful expressions from people of many different backgrounds

-v13 My house will be called a house of prayer ... for all nations (Isaiah 56:8)

9. Opportunity was given for those in need to be ministered to

-v14 The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them

10. Children as part of the congregation shared the experience of Jesus being with his people and they were actively involved

-v15 the children shouting in the temple area 'Hosanna to the Son of David'

11.The contribution of the children was given it's true value

-vie From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise (because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger - Psalm 8:2)

This article is taken from the introduction to the songbook for Family Worship 2 - With One Voice and may be reproduced as long as the author and source is acknowledged. www.familyworship.org.uk