Seven Days That Changed The World
The Donkey, The Cross, And The Crowd | Part 1
Senior Pastor Keith Stewart
February 22, 2026

On Palm Sunday, the crowds shouted “Hosanna,” waved palm branches, and welcomed Jesus as King. But they wanted a conqueror with a hammer—not a Savior riding a donkey. What they celebrated on Sunday, they rejected by Friday because Jesus refused to meet their expectations. He did not come to overthrow Rome; He came to overthrow sin. The question remains for us: will we follow the King we want—or the Lamb who came to save?

Discussion Questions

1. Observation: Seeing What the Text Reveals

Why do you think all four Gospel writers included the Triumphal Entry? What does that tell us about its importance? What different biblical connections to the donkey did you notice (Zechariah, Abraham and Isaac, Solomon)? What do those layers communicate about Jesus?

What political expectations were present in Jerusalem during Passover? How did palm branches, cloaks, and the word “Hosanna” reflect those expectations?

2. Interpretation: Understanding the Meaning

What message was Jesus intentionally sending by riding a donkey instead of a war horse? How does that redefine power?

The crowd welcomed Jesus as King but rejected Him as Savior. What is the difference between enthusiasm and genuine faith?

3. Personal Reflection: Examining the Heart

In what ways do people today (including Christians) project their own expectations onto Jesus?

Where are you most tempted to want “Air Force One Jesus” instead of “Donkey Jesus”?

The crowd wanted deliverance from Rome; Jesus came to deal with sin. What problems in your life feel urgent but may not be the root issue?

Jesus entered Jerusalem on Lamb Selection Day. If He stood before you today asking for your allegiance, what would it mean practically to choose the Lamb instead of the hammer?