False Advertising

Date: April 5, 2009; Series: At the Cross Sermon: False Advertising; Text: Mark 11:1-21 What has been termed "The Triumphal Entry" is one of the few events recorded in ALL 4 gospels - emphasizing its importance. Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem was a carefully orchestrated parable - in the words of theologian Robert Stein, “For Jesus the triumphal entry was a carefully orchestrated messianic act. It was a parabolic act that could be perceived by those with eyes to see but that was concealed for others.” And those with eyes to see understood the true meaning of this parable: The King is Here! Upon arriving in Kingly fashion, what are the first actions of this new King? Another parable. After His highly parabolic and symbolic entry, Jesus enacts another parable that clearly communicates His intentions of this King: He curses a fig tree and then overturns business as usual at the Temple. Jesus is clearing the way for something new, something better. He’s clearing the way so that men and women - like you and me - might truly be saved. Hosanna in the Highest!