WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:04.700 Well, thank you, worship team and choir. 00:00:05.339 --> 00:00:07.740 What a great preview of next week. 00:00:08.320 --> 00:00:09.179 ! I'm looking forward to it. 00:00:10.060 --> 00:00:11.880 What a blessing it's been already this morning. 00:00:13.099 --> 00:00:14.000 ! 00:00:30.000 --> 00:00:32.740 We are going to be looking at today from Zechariah. 00:00:33.679 --> 00:00:37.740 But before we jump into the text, let's go to the Lord in prayer. 00:00:38.320 --> 00:00:42.519 Ask for His help and His enablement as we look into His Word. 00:00:44.399 --> 00:00:51.260 Lord, we understand this morning the significance of coming to the Word today. 00:00:52.299 --> 00:00:54.980 The significance of being in Your presence. 00:00:54.979 --> 00:01:00.039 There is nothing that escapes Your gaze. 00:01:01.099 --> 00:01:09.560 There is no hidden chamber of our heart this morning that is concealed from Your penetrating look. 00:01:10.819 --> 00:01:13.579 We can't hide from You. 00:01:14.840 --> 00:01:18.000 We're open, we're bare, we're vulnerable before You. 00:01:18.859 --> 00:01:21.479 And we pray this morning as we open the text 00:01:21.480 --> 00:01:25.160 that Your Holy Spirit would speak to our hearts 00:01:25.160 --> 00:01:31.460 and that the kind Savior that we have sung about this morning 00:01:31.460 --> 00:01:37.020 will lead us to the Lordship of Christ 00:01:37.020 --> 00:01:42.000 will help us to lay down all that we are, all our treasures 00:01:42.000 --> 00:01:45.659 and crown You King of all. 00:01:47.460 --> 00:01:48.500 That's the gospel. 00:01:49.859 --> 00:01:51.200 Lord, that's what we want. 00:01:51.480 --> 00:01:52.859 To be clear this morning. 00:01:53.900 --> 00:01:55.040 Savior and King. 00:01:55.240 --> 00:01:55.920 That's who You are. 00:01:56.760 --> 00:01:58.680 And we praise You for that in Jesus' name. 00:01:59.380 --> 00:01:59.640 Amen. 00:02:02.219 --> 00:02:04.859 I don't know what you think about when you think about Christmas. 00:02:05.079 --> 00:02:08.520 There are so many amazing aspects of Christmas. 00:02:09.520 --> 00:02:12.379 The music and the lights and the tree. 00:02:14.080 --> 00:02:15.860 I don't know what comes to your mind. 00:02:15.860 --> 00:02:18.320 Maybe getting together with family. 00:02:18.320 --> 00:02:23.200 Or if you're a child today, the exchange of presents. 00:02:23.540 --> 00:02:28.160 All of the excitement and enthusiasm of what's under the tree 00:02:28.160 --> 00:02:32.700 and all that's to be anticipated in that great day. 00:02:32.699 --> 00:02:34.079 Maybe there are festivities. 00:02:34.079 --> 00:02:34.560 Maybe there are festivities. 00:02:34.560 --> 00:02:38.619 Maybe there are gathering together of family and friends. 00:02:39.819 --> 00:02:43.879 Whatever it is this morning, I want us to understand this morning 00:02:43.879 --> 00:02:45.659 that Christmas is more than that. 00:02:46.799 --> 00:02:50.459 And that Christmas exists not because of an event per se 00:02:50.459 --> 00:02:55.000 or a series of events or even the initiation of events. 00:02:55.000 --> 00:02:57.840 But Christmas exists today because of a person. 00:02:59.199 --> 00:03:00.879 As we've looked through the Old Testament 00:03:00.879 --> 00:03:04.360 and we've seen the prophecies related to the Messiah, 00:03:04.560 --> 00:03:09.240 we see that there are certain epics, certain ages of events. 00:03:09.460 --> 00:03:11.120 There are things that we're anticipating. 00:03:12.000 --> 00:03:13.580 Things that have happened in the past. 00:03:13.780 --> 00:03:17.560 Things that will continue to happen on into the future. 00:03:18.759 --> 00:03:21.920 But they happen not because necessarily of a promise. 00:03:21.920 --> 00:03:24.219 They happen because of a person. 00:03:25.000 --> 00:03:26.979 It happened because of Christ, 00:03:27.180 --> 00:03:33.699 who is the fulfillment of all that God had promised for His people. 00:03:35.159 --> 00:03:37.979 Certainly there is much to be thankful for, 00:03:38.120 --> 00:03:42.340 certainly much to celebrate this Christmas season. 00:03:43.180 --> 00:03:46.979 And in every Christmas, there are so many things for us to celebrate. 00:03:47.979 --> 00:03:49.759 As we think about celebration, 00:03:49.759 --> 00:03:52.620 I want this morning for you to think about good news. 00:03:52.620 --> 00:03:58.340 There is good news to celebrate this Christmas. 00:03:59.000 --> 00:04:02.719 Good news to celebrate because of Jesus. 00:04:04.000 --> 00:04:05.159 Good news. 00:04:05.439 --> 00:04:09.140 And as the New Testament encapsulates good news, 00:04:09.240 --> 00:04:10.840 it is the gospel. 00:04:11.920 --> 00:04:14.780 The good news of salvation. 00:04:14.780 --> 00:04:21.939 If you have asked any average Jew existing before Jesus, 00:04:22.100 --> 00:04:23.680 or even in Jesus' day, 00:04:24.800 --> 00:04:29.639 what was to be anticipated with these prophecies of the Messiah, 00:04:30.220 --> 00:04:35.259 in their mind would be something related to His lordship, 00:04:35.439 --> 00:04:36.959 the fact that He is king, 00:04:36.959 --> 00:04:42.539 the fact that He will come and He will take His place of authority. 00:04:43.339 --> 00:04:48.819 Their hopes were set on a political aspect of His kingliness. 00:04:49.859 --> 00:04:53.620 They were looking forward to all of the oppression that they had experienced 00:04:53.620 --> 00:04:56.019 to be erased in this Messiah, 00:04:57.219 --> 00:05:03.079 bringing together of two peoples that had been separated because of sin, 00:05:03.079 --> 00:05:05.039 the northern ten tribes, 00:05:05.039 --> 00:05:09.779 and then Judah and Benjamin being reunited because of this Messiah. 00:05:10.719 --> 00:05:13.680 They were looking for this national identity, 00:05:14.359 --> 00:05:17.199 and the hopes of now being in control, 00:05:17.740 --> 00:05:20.379 instead of being dominated by world empires, 00:05:20.500 --> 00:05:25.120 whether it be Babylon, or Persia, or Assyria, or Rome. 00:05:25.120 --> 00:05:30.500 Their hopes were set on things becoming new for them as a people 00:05:30.500 --> 00:05:38.160 because of this peaceful, dominating, authoritative reign of this Messiah who would come. 00:05:39.060 --> 00:05:41.660 That's what the Jews had set their hopes on. 00:05:43.300 --> 00:05:48.379 But if you would ask an average believer today, a Christian today, 00:05:48.500 --> 00:05:52.879 what is the purpose or the point of the Messiah's coming? 00:05:52.879 --> 00:05:54.540 Why did Jesus come? 00:05:55.779 --> 00:05:58.439 What do we celebrate on Christmas? 00:05:59.000 --> 00:05:59.939 What's it all about? 00:06:01.139 --> 00:06:02.899 The average Christian would say, 00:06:03.040 --> 00:06:06.240 well, Jesus came to be our Savior. 00:06:07.339 --> 00:06:12.620 Jesus came as a baby many, many years ago to a little town of Bethlehem. 00:06:13.500 --> 00:06:17.100 He came and His birth was announced to the shepherds, 00:06:17.100 --> 00:06:22.900 and a virgin birthed this Emmanuel, God with us. 00:06:23.680 --> 00:06:28.140 And the whole point of Jesus' coming was that in a few short years, 00:06:28.300 --> 00:06:30.600 there would be a cross. 00:06:31.660 --> 00:06:34.100 There would be suffering. 00:06:35.000 --> 00:06:36.000 There would be death. 00:06:36.960 --> 00:06:39.520 But there would be resurrection, and there would be life, 00:06:39.720 --> 00:06:42.840 and there would be salvation, and forgiveness, and cleansing 00:06:42.839 --> 00:06:45.060 for anyone who would believe in Him. 00:06:45.259 --> 00:06:47.879 That's truly what Christmas is about. 00:06:48.539 --> 00:06:52.199 That's what the coming of Messiah is to bring. 00:06:54.319 --> 00:06:56.500 But as we look at this passage, 00:06:56.739 --> 00:07:01.959 we're going to find some answers this morning in Zechariah 9. 00:07:03.500 --> 00:07:06.539 In Zechariah 9, if you turn to Matthew, 00:07:06.699 --> 00:07:08.599 and then turn back a couple of books, 00:07:08.679 --> 00:07:09.899 you're going to get to Zechariah. 00:07:09.899 --> 00:07:13.019 We'll be there this morning to find answers to this question. 00:07:13.519 --> 00:07:14.379 Who is right? 00:07:15.279 --> 00:07:17.199 Did Jesus come as King, 00:07:17.459 --> 00:07:19.959 or did Jesus come as Savior? 00:07:21.419 --> 00:07:22.939 And it's my experience 00:07:22.939 --> 00:07:28.179 that this is one of the most misunderstood aspects 00:07:28.179 --> 00:07:29.659 of the Christmas story. 00:07:30.839 --> 00:07:32.779 Why did Jesus come? 00:07:33.459 --> 00:07:37.839 What was the purpose of His becoming a man? 00:07:37.839 --> 00:07:41.379 What did He hope to accomplish? 00:07:42.799 --> 00:07:45.199 So turn with me to Zechariah 9. 00:07:46.239 --> 00:07:47.919 If you're a guest with us this morning, 00:07:48.479 --> 00:07:52.399 it's in the Pew Bible ahead of you on page 797. 00:07:53.859 --> 00:07:57.719 Zechariah 9, reading from verse 9. 00:07:58.379 --> 00:07:59.159 Here's what it says. 00:08:00.739 --> 00:08:03.379 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion. 00:08:04.239 --> 00:08:06.679 Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem. 00:08:06.680 --> 00:08:09.920 Behold, your King is coming to you. 00:08:11.360 --> 00:08:14.199 Righteous, and having salvation is He. 00:08:14.480 --> 00:08:17.319 Humble, and mounted on a donkey, 00:08:17.900 --> 00:08:20.699 on a colt, the foal of a donkey. 00:08:20.699 --> 00:08:24.439 Maybe you're saying, time out, Andrew. 00:08:24.979 --> 00:08:26.599 What is going on here? 00:08:26.779 --> 00:08:28.159 You got the wrong time of year. 00:08:28.899 --> 00:08:30.620 This is not a Christmas story. 00:08:30.759 --> 00:08:32.799 This is a Palm Sunday story. 00:08:32.899 --> 00:08:34.720 This is the triumphal entry. 00:08:35.379 --> 00:08:38.840 This is happening a little later on in Jesus' ministry, 00:08:38.939 --> 00:08:40.319 not on Christmas Day. 00:08:40.320 --> 00:08:44.379 But I want you to understand this morning 00:08:44.379 --> 00:08:49.740 that what happened throughout the course of the life of Jesus 00:08:49.740 --> 00:08:53.240 comes to us in one complete package, 00:08:53.760 --> 00:08:56.560 not separated and compartmentalized. 00:08:56.780 --> 00:08:59.840 That when Jesus came as King, 00:09:00.060 --> 00:09:02.740 He came as King not just to Jerusalem 00:09:02.740 --> 00:09:06.039 on that day of His triumphal entry. 00:09:06.759 --> 00:09:10.940 Certainly that was a day when He was recognized as King 00:09:10.940 --> 00:09:15.100 by the masses of pilgrims who thronged Jerusalem 00:09:15.100 --> 00:09:17.419 in preparation for the Passover. 00:09:17.419 --> 00:09:22.599 But that was not the first time that Jesus was celebrated as King. 00:09:23.740 --> 00:09:28.479 And that was not the first time that Jesus was recognized as King. 00:09:29.079 --> 00:09:33.779 He was King, and He would show Himself to be King. 00:09:35.139 --> 00:09:36.419 But I want to back up, 00:09:36.539 --> 00:09:38.399 and I want us to understand the significance 00:09:38.399 --> 00:09:43.480 of the Christmas story in relationship to Jesus as King. 00:09:43.480 --> 00:09:47.800 The Gospel writer Matthew goes to great lengths 00:09:47.800 --> 00:09:51.779 to help us understand the significance of the coming King. 00:09:51.879 --> 00:09:53.480 And that is our first point this morning. 00:09:53.759 --> 00:09:57.100 I want to focus on the coming of the King. 00:09:57.840 --> 00:09:59.659 The coming of the King. 00:10:01.279 --> 00:10:03.340 And what should jump out at you 00:10:03.340 --> 00:10:05.379 at the very beginning of this verse 00:10:05.379 --> 00:10:08.440 in verse 9 of Zechariah chapter 9, 00:10:08.940 --> 00:10:11.860 you see this context of celebration. 00:10:11.860 --> 00:10:18.019 This context of shouting and rejoicing and enthusiasm. 00:10:19.259 --> 00:10:22.500 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion, 00:10:23.100 --> 00:10:24.659 the prophet Zechariah says. 00:10:25.419 --> 00:10:28.759 And then he magnifies it by repeating the significance. 00:10:29.159 --> 00:10:32.300 Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem. 00:10:33.019 --> 00:10:35.440 Speaking to the same group of individuals 00:10:35.440 --> 00:10:39.620 described as Jerusalem and daughters of Zion. 00:10:39.620 --> 00:10:43.740 Those living in Jerusalem had every reason to celebrate. 00:10:44.840 --> 00:10:47.460 Celebrating the coming of the King. 00:10:48.480 --> 00:10:52.279 His coming is marked by celebration. 00:10:52.860 --> 00:10:55.899 His coming is marked by celebration. 00:10:56.100 --> 00:10:59.279 We see that here in our passage this morning. 00:10:59.279 --> 00:11:03.839 Matthew wanted us to understand. 00:11:03.939 --> 00:11:06.139 He wanted his readers to understand 00:11:06.139 --> 00:11:09.459 that when Jesus came to this earth, 00:11:09.559 --> 00:11:10.620 he came as King. 00:11:11.419 --> 00:11:14.819 He leaves no question about that in the minds of his readers. 00:11:15.139 --> 00:11:18.100 From the very beginning of the Gospel of Matthew to the very end. 00:11:18.939 --> 00:11:22.419 The whole theme of the book is Christ as King. 00:11:22.419 --> 00:11:33.219 We see that as the angel comes and announces the birth of the baby Jesus to Mary. 00:11:34.219 --> 00:11:38.379 In Luke chapter 1, Matthew also accentuates that. 00:11:38.439 --> 00:11:42.699 But Luke brings this same flavor to our understanding. 00:11:42.700 --> 00:11:45.440 The angel says to Mary, he says, 00:11:45.720 --> 00:11:46.720 Do not be afraid. 00:11:46.820 --> 00:11:48.940 You have found favor with God, Mary. 00:11:50.500 --> 00:11:53.340 Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a son. 00:11:53.759 --> 00:11:55.440 His name will be called Jesus. 00:11:56.440 --> 00:12:00.460 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Highest. 00:12:00.460 --> 00:12:05.860 And the Lord, God, will give him the throne of his father David. 00:12:06.639 --> 00:12:09.820 And he will reign over the house of Jacob forever. 00:12:10.480 --> 00:12:13.840 And of his kingdom there will be no end. 00:12:15.900 --> 00:12:17.240 What does that mean? 00:12:18.500 --> 00:12:20.900 What was Mary anticipating? 00:12:22.840 --> 00:12:26.940 Reading and hearing this announcement from the angel. 00:12:26.940 --> 00:12:33.700 What would you expect to be true of this new little one who is growing in your womb? 00:12:34.660 --> 00:12:37.080 You would expect that he would be the king. 00:12:37.940 --> 00:12:41.980 That he would have a physical reign on the earth. 00:12:42.160 --> 00:12:43.860 Not just a theoretical reign. 00:12:45.100 --> 00:12:46.860 Certainly that's what Mary was anticipating. 00:12:47.140 --> 00:12:50.500 And certainly that is what the Jews of the day were expecting. 00:12:51.180 --> 00:12:53.380 The coming Messiah would be the coming king. 00:12:53.379 --> 00:12:57.879 And then to the shepherds in Luke chapter 2. 00:12:58.960 --> 00:13:00.600 The announcement of the angels. 00:13:01.039 --> 00:13:07.220 Do not be afraid for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all the people. 00:13:09.480 --> 00:13:12.480 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a savior. 00:13:13.360 --> 00:13:17.480 Who is, finish it for me, Christ the king. 00:13:17.480 --> 00:13:18.480 Good news. 00:13:18.480 --> 00:13:19.480 Good news. 00:13:19.480 --> 00:13:20.180 Good news. 00:13:20.279 --> 00:13:25.320 These themes of rejoicing and celebration and good news. 00:13:25.820 --> 00:13:27.240 I bring you great news. 00:13:27.340 --> 00:13:30.220 Good news of great joy which will be to all the people. 00:13:31.019 --> 00:13:32.019 This is the gospel. 00:13:32.539 --> 00:13:35.060 The gospel is that the king is coming. 00:13:36.200 --> 00:13:37.379 The king is coming. 00:13:38.120 --> 00:13:39.240 That's what they expected. 00:13:39.879 --> 00:13:41.060 And that was good news. 00:13:41.059 --> 00:13:48.399 The king and savior bound together in one thought. 00:13:48.699 --> 00:13:49.159 Excuse me. 00:13:49.199 --> 00:13:50.279 One thought this morning. 00:13:50.899 --> 00:13:52.519 Leading them to joy. 00:13:54.000 --> 00:13:55.219 And to the magi. 00:13:56.500 --> 00:13:59.419 To the magi who came to Jerusalem. 00:13:59.879 --> 00:14:02.139 Looking for the savior. 00:14:02.279 --> 00:14:03.379 What did they ask? 00:14:03.500 --> 00:14:03.959 Do you remember? 00:14:04.519 --> 00:14:05.599 In Matthew chapter 2. 00:14:05.600 --> 00:14:11.240 Where is he who is born king of the Jews? 00:14:12.279 --> 00:14:15.680 Where is he who is born king of the Jews? 00:14:16.820 --> 00:14:20.500 You ever wonder where they got that concept? 00:14:21.540 --> 00:14:23.720 You ever wonder how they came to Jerusalem? 00:14:24.759 --> 00:14:28.540 With the thought that a king was coming? 00:14:28.539 --> 00:14:33.539 I wonder if it had anything to do with this book, Zechariah. 00:14:34.459 --> 00:14:35.639 In this verse here. 00:14:35.779 --> 00:14:37.719 In chapter 9, verse 9. 00:14:38.879 --> 00:14:42.159 Because as we find in Zechariah chapter 1. 00:14:42.259 --> 00:14:48.740 We find that this is a prophecy that was given during the reign of Darius. 00:14:50.039 --> 00:14:55.899 Now, for those of you who have been with us in this series through Isaiah. 00:14:55.899 --> 00:15:00.220 You would come to recognize that something is different. 00:15:02.319 --> 00:15:05.559 Now, the time is not being marked by a king of Judah. 00:15:06.259 --> 00:15:07.639 Or a king of Israel. 00:15:07.819 --> 00:15:12.240 But now, time is being marked by a foreign king. 00:15:13.340 --> 00:15:14.539 The king of Persia. 00:15:15.720 --> 00:15:18.679 And that's exactly what is taking place here in this context. 00:15:19.220 --> 00:15:23.539 Zechariah is writing to a group of individuals who have come out of Babylon. 00:15:23.539 --> 00:15:25.899 And have now come into Jerusalem. 00:15:26.939 --> 00:15:29.299 They're finally back in their homeland. 00:15:30.240 --> 00:15:36.779 They're finally back to the place where their forefathers had lived and dwelled. 00:15:38.219 --> 00:15:44.919 And now this promise continues to reignite their imagination of what the Messiah must look like. 00:15:44.919 --> 00:15:48.019 And Daniel having stayed in Babylon. 00:15:48.559 --> 00:15:52.219 And Ezekiel having stayed and written in Babylon. 00:15:52.319 --> 00:15:58.639 There was this exchange of material that was going back and forth between Jerusalem and Babylon. 00:15:58.639 --> 00:16:04.120 I wonder if Zechariah sent a copy of his prophecy back to Babylon. 00:16:05.179 --> 00:16:07.179 And so here we have the Magi showing up. 00:16:07.659 --> 00:16:09.980 Looking for the king in Jerusalem. 00:16:09.980 --> 00:16:14.639 Probably because of Zechariah chapter 9 verse 9. 00:16:16.340 --> 00:16:19.039 The gospel had gone to the nations. 00:16:19.840 --> 00:16:23.220 Now, it wasn't the way that God wanted the gospel to go to the nations. 00:16:23.480 --> 00:16:28.340 He didn't want Israel to be a light to the Gentiles because of captivity. 00:16:28.720 --> 00:16:29.759 But that's how it happened. 00:16:31.279 --> 00:16:35.840 And now, the word of God is having its way in the hearts of people. 00:16:35.840 --> 00:16:38.639 In other people groups. 00:16:40.120 --> 00:16:42.720 And here is this group of Magi showing up. 00:16:43.759 --> 00:16:46.920 Where is he who is born king of the Jews? 00:16:48.259 --> 00:16:54.100 Both Matthew and Luke go to great lengths to help us understand that Christ came as king. 00:16:54.980 --> 00:17:00.759 They capture his genealogy in Matthew chapter 1 and in Luke chapter 4. 00:17:00.759 --> 00:17:05.640 They trace the lineage of Jesus through the line of David. 00:17:06.039 --> 00:17:08.900 He was to be king or the rightful king through David. 00:17:09.000 --> 00:17:14.000 But then on through Abraham who was the forefather of David. 00:17:14.220 --> 00:17:17.359 And Luke even takes it further going all the way back to Adam. 00:17:18.440 --> 00:17:19.220 The first man. 00:17:20.240 --> 00:17:22.460 Jesus was king at his birth. 00:17:22.920 --> 00:17:23.579 We sing that. 00:17:23.680 --> 00:17:26.259 Jesus, Lord at thy birth. 00:17:26.420 --> 00:17:27.359 That's what it means. 00:17:27.359 --> 00:17:29.319 Jesus, Lord and king. 00:17:29.679 --> 00:17:30.240 Master. 00:17:30.759 --> 00:17:31.879 Supreme over all. 00:17:33.659 --> 00:17:36.159 We find in this passage this morning. 00:17:36.359 --> 00:17:41.959 This joy that erupts in Jerusalem because of the coming king. 00:17:43.000 --> 00:17:45.539 It was a cause of great joy. 00:17:46.299 --> 00:17:48.000 Of shouting and enthusiasm. 00:17:48.000 --> 00:17:54.460 But as we understand the context of this prophecy. 00:17:54.839 --> 00:17:55.900 We wonder. 00:17:56.460 --> 00:18:02.119 We wonder at how significant it was that the prophecy would come at such a time. 00:18:03.460 --> 00:18:06.380 Up to this point in Israel's history. 00:18:06.720 --> 00:18:13.839 They had been in Jerusalem and enjoying the experience of the kings who were providing leadership over them. 00:18:13.839 --> 00:18:16.699 But at this moment there was no king. 00:18:17.519 --> 00:18:19.000 At least not of Israel. 00:18:20.139 --> 00:18:22.480 At this point there was no authority. 00:18:23.500 --> 00:18:26.379 At this point there was really not a nation per se. 00:18:26.519 --> 00:18:28.599 Just a collection of individuals. 00:18:28.819 --> 00:18:32.579 A group of people who had migrated back to Jerusalem. 00:18:33.679 --> 00:18:35.679 Only 50,000 of them. 00:18:36.220 --> 00:18:38.240 Who made their way back to Jerusalem. 00:18:38.240 --> 00:18:42.399 About 70 years after the captivity began. 00:18:42.400 --> 00:18:45.840 Many remained in Babylon. 00:18:47.240 --> 00:18:48.019 They're few in number. 00:18:48.880 --> 00:18:50.519 They have no recourse for defense. 00:18:50.820 --> 00:18:53.120 No political structure among themselves. 00:18:53.340 --> 00:18:58.480 The only mandate that they have in coming back to Jerusalem is to build the temple. 00:19:02.500 --> 00:19:10.240 But the enthusiasm of returning to Jerusalem would be overshadowed by the darkness of difficulty. 00:19:10.240 --> 00:19:13.440 As they see the walls crumbling down. 00:19:13.579 --> 00:19:18.759 As they come back to a city that had been ransacked. 00:19:19.539 --> 00:19:23.400 Fields that had been overrun by weeds. 00:19:24.059 --> 00:19:31.420 And a group of individuals who were pushed around and bullied by the local authorities. 00:19:32.579 --> 00:19:34.339 The temple was demolished. 00:19:34.980 --> 00:19:36.099 Roads were in disrepair. 00:19:36.099 --> 00:19:47.559 Any dream that they had of this national resurgence was dissipated by the reality of the situation in Jerusalem. 00:19:48.399 --> 00:19:52.619 But this is when the prophet encouraged the people. 00:19:53.579 --> 00:19:55.919 Although you are an isolated people. 00:19:56.019 --> 00:19:57.259 You are not a forgotten people. 00:19:58.139 --> 00:19:59.939 The king is coming. 00:19:59.940 --> 00:20:02.600 And he will reestablish himself. 00:20:02.940 --> 00:20:04.799 And reestablish this people. 00:20:05.799 --> 00:20:07.960 He will come and bring joy once again. 00:20:08.900 --> 00:20:12.620 Joy to a people who have been despised. 00:20:12.900 --> 00:20:13.840 Who have been disciplined. 00:20:14.039 --> 00:20:15.820 Who have been rebuked by God. 00:20:16.559 --> 00:20:17.660 And sent into captivity. 00:20:18.779 --> 00:20:21.420 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion. 00:20:21.600 --> 00:20:23.180 Shout aloud. 00:20:23.180 --> 00:20:27.680 Notice God is interested in their joy. 00:20:29.000 --> 00:20:31.320 He is interested in the joy of his people. 00:20:32.220 --> 00:20:35.380 He is interested in your joy this morning. 00:20:36.560 --> 00:20:37.880 And that is good news. 00:20:38.920 --> 00:20:40.360 That is the gospel. 00:20:41.039 --> 00:20:43.220 Jerusalem would celebrate once again. 00:20:43.940 --> 00:20:46.320 They would celebrate at the coming of their king. 00:20:46.319 --> 00:20:50.159 The coming is marked by celebration. 00:20:50.319 --> 00:20:54.439 But I want you to notice that the coming is also marked by anticipation. 00:20:55.919 --> 00:20:56.480 It says, 00:20:58.179 --> 00:21:01.679 Behold, your king is coming to you. 00:21:02.619 --> 00:21:05.299 Behold, your king is coming to you. 00:21:06.339 --> 00:21:08.500 Notice the imminence of this phrase. 00:21:10.039 --> 00:21:14.639 Notice the pattern of all of the prophets as they speak throughout the Old Testament. 00:21:14.640 --> 00:21:16.759 And even the prophets of the New Testament. 00:21:17.500 --> 00:21:22.000 When they foretell events in the future, they all seem to run together. 00:21:22.800 --> 00:21:25.759 They all seem to kind of collapse into one event. 00:21:26.560 --> 00:21:31.440 Instead of spread out into history as we would expect them to be. 00:21:32.580 --> 00:21:38.560 Old Testament and New Testament writers alike seem to refer to future events in just this way. 00:21:39.280 --> 00:21:42.280 They all kind of collapse into one moment. 00:21:42.279 --> 00:21:45.420 But there is inevitability. 00:21:46.359 --> 00:21:47.720 And certainty of this event. 00:21:48.059 --> 00:21:50.920 And it's bound up not in an event itself. 00:21:51.019 --> 00:21:52.519 But it's bound up in God. 00:21:53.839 --> 00:22:00.680 The certainty of what will happen in the future is wrapped up in the character of who God is. 00:22:01.240 --> 00:22:04.220 That what God says God will do. 00:22:04.940 --> 00:22:07.180 Because of who he is. 00:22:07.180 --> 00:22:10.420 And even though they are looking for him. 00:22:10.519 --> 00:22:12.160 Anticipating his arrival. 00:22:13.340 --> 00:22:17.019 Even though they were looking forward to this Messiah. 00:22:18.080 --> 00:22:19.880 500 years would go by. 00:22:21.539 --> 00:22:24.640 And we find that in the gospel records. 00:22:24.740 --> 00:22:26.680 Even though they were looking forward to the Messiah. 00:22:27.200 --> 00:22:28.519 They missed him. 00:22:29.560 --> 00:22:31.620 They missed Jesus. 00:22:32.019 --> 00:22:35.000 Their king who is standing right in front of them. 00:22:35.000 --> 00:22:37.359 Why? 00:22:38.140 --> 00:22:40.059 Why did they miss their king? 00:22:41.980 --> 00:22:44.200 They missed their king because they were limited. 00:22:44.920 --> 00:22:46.640 By their understanding. 00:22:46.799 --> 00:22:50.019 Their vision was obscured by their understanding. 00:22:50.420 --> 00:22:51.839 Of what the king would do. 00:22:52.460 --> 00:22:54.359 And why the king would come. 00:22:55.759 --> 00:22:57.940 They had great hopes for world reform. 00:22:58.660 --> 00:23:01.359 They had great hopes of being established once again. 00:23:01.359 --> 00:23:03.179 As a people of God. 00:23:03.699 --> 00:23:08.179 They were looking forward to overcoming the oppression of Roman domination. 00:23:09.279 --> 00:23:12.219 Of shaking off this oppressive regime. 00:23:13.259 --> 00:23:17.099 Of once again living with the authority of the Messiah. 00:23:17.459 --> 00:23:19.859 Helping to rule and reign and usher in peace. 00:23:21.199 --> 00:23:24.079 Their hopes were set on political liberation. 00:23:24.079 --> 00:23:26.699 They wanted a king. 00:23:27.480 --> 00:23:29.559 But they were not looking for a savior. 00:23:30.740 --> 00:23:32.279 They wanted a king. 00:23:32.899 --> 00:23:35.460 But they were not looking for a savior. 00:23:36.179 --> 00:23:37.319 That's what they needed. 00:23:38.139 --> 00:23:39.759 But that's not what they were looking for. 00:23:40.659 --> 00:23:42.119 From a religious standpoint. 00:23:42.279 --> 00:23:44.679 They had everything going for them. 00:23:44.680 --> 00:23:49.180 In more than any other time in the nation's history. 00:23:49.820 --> 00:23:54.360 There was a resurgence of religion within the Jewish context. 00:23:55.120 --> 00:23:58.420 They had this great temple that had been built by Herod. 00:23:58.500 --> 00:24:01.160 They had scribes and Pharisees and Sadducees. 00:24:01.320 --> 00:24:04.560 Who did so well to help keep the law. 00:24:05.320 --> 00:24:08.660 There were more pilgrims streaming to Jerusalem in this time. 00:24:08.820 --> 00:24:10.840 Than ever before in Israel's history. 00:24:11.860 --> 00:24:13.560 They kept the law. 00:24:13.559 --> 00:24:16.359 They enjoyed their system of religion. 00:24:16.919 --> 00:24:18.579 Their sacrificial duties. 00:24:19.000 --> 00:24:21.240 And their class system of righteousness. 00:24:22.319 --> 00:24:24.220 They had religion squared away. 00:24:24.779 --> 00:24:28.200 They had salvation locked up as far as they were concerned. 00:24:28.480 --> 00:24:29.759 They didn't need salvation. 00:24:29.919 --> 00:24:30.859 They had that already. 00:24:31.779 --> 00:24:33.679 What they needed they thought was a king. 00:24:35.460 --> 00:24:38.519 And because they were not looking for a savior. 00:24:38.700 --> 00:24:40.299 They missed their king. 00:24:40.299 --> 00:24:44.240 Because you cannot have a king without a savior. 00:24:46.839 --> 00:24:48.379 As far as they were concerned. 00:24:49.919 --> 00:24:52.139 Salvation was locked in the bag for them. 00:24:53.519 --> 00:24:56.399 But that is not the message of this text this morning. 00:24:57.879 --> 00:25:00.180 And that is not the message of the New Testament. 00:25:00.180 --> 00:25:04.120 When Jesus rode into Jerusalem. 00:25:04.660 --> 00:25:08.299 The gospel writer underscores the significance of this point. 00:25:08.400 --> 00:25:11.820 By saying behold your king is coming to you. 00:25:12.940 --> 00:25:15.900 Righteous and having salvation. 00:25:16.720 --> 00:25:19.140 The two are bound together. 00:25:19.539 --> 00:25:20.799 They are inseparable. 00:25:21.200 --> 00:25:23.320 You cannot have one without the other. 00:25:23.319 --> 00:25:25.559 And so the Jews missed their king. 00:25:25.659 --> 00:25:28.139 Because they missed their savior. 00:25:29.159 --> 00:25:30.859 They were not looking for a savior. 00:25:31.859 --> 00:25:33.399 So they could not have a king. 00:25:34.039 --> 00:25:36.639 Until they understood that the path of peace. 00:25:36.799 --> 00:25:40.099 Only comes through the person of Jesus Christ. 00:25:41.259 --> 00:25:41.899 Repentance. 00:25:42.339 --> 00:25:42.819 Forgiveness. 00:25:43.619 --> 00:25:44.220 Confession. 00:25:44.960 --> 00:25:46.139 And righteousness. 00:25:46.419 --> 00:25:47.539 True righteousness. 00:25:47.859 --> 00:25:49.839 Can only be found in him. 00:25:49.839 --> 00:25:54.439 And then they will experience the pathway to peace. 00:25:55.720 --> 00:26:01.720 The pathway to God's intervening grace in their lives. 00:26:03.399 --> 00:26:04.980 And that is a profound statement. 00:26:05.199 --> 00:26:08.259 Belief in Christ is bound up in the understanding. 00:26:08.599 --> 00:26:11.439 Of Christ being king and savior. 00:26:12.720 --> 00:26:14.579 So let's turn to the second point. 00:26:15.199 --> 00:26:16.699 In the second part of this verse. 00:26:16.699 --> 00:26:18.659 He did come as king. 00:26:18.660 --> 00:26:21.240 But he also came as savior. 00:26:21.360 --> 00:26:22.840 The coming of the savior. 00:26:24.120 --> 00:26:24.840 Notice with me. 00:26:25.920 --> 00:26:27.480 Behold your king is coming to you. 00:26:27.940 --> 00:26:30.000 Righteous and having salvation is he. 00:26:30.400 --> 00:26:32.700 Humble and mounted on a donkey. 00:26:33.200 --> 00:26:33.940 On a colt. 00:26:34.420 --> 00:26:35.440 The foal of a donkey. 00:26:37.880 --> 00:26:39.140 The king is coming. 00:26:39.720 --> 00:26:42.140 Described in four different ways. 00:26:42.400 --> 00:26:45.680 But wrapped together in two different couplets. 00:26:45.680 --> 00:26:51.799 Two words that kind of go together to provide a fuller description of what is taking place here. 00:26:52.460 --> 00:26:56.900 Notice it says righteous in having salvation. 00:26:57.660 --> 00:26:58.779 That's point number one. 00:26:59.400 --> 00:27:00.920 He is the righteous savior. 00:27:02.039 --> 00:27:07.820 And point number two that we'll get to in just a moment is humble in riding on a donkey. 00:27:07.819 --> 00:27:11.139 He is not only the righteous savior. 00:27:11.259 --> 00:27:13.919 But he is also the humble savior. 00:27:14.679 --> 00:27:16.139 But let's deal with these one at a time. 00:27:18.399 --> 00:27:22.819 His coming is described as one who is righteous in having salvation. 00:27:22.819 --> 00:27:23.460 Salvation. 00:27:24.700 --> 00:27:25.779 The concept. 00:27:25.960 --> 00:27:33.519 The Old Testament concept of Christ or God's righteousness is one of the predominant themes in the Old Testament. 00:27:34.359 --> 00:27:36.639 If you were to ask anyone what the Old Testament is about. 00:27:36.740 --> 00:27:37.220 They would tell you. 00:27:37.399 --> 00:27:38.559 Well it's about a holy God. 00:27:39.119 --> 00:27:42.799 Who has a righteous standard that is encapsulated in the law. 00:27:43.480 --> 00:27:44.819 We see in the Old Testament. 00:27:45.079 --> 00:27:48.799 This righteous God working out his plans in his people. 00:27:48.799 --> 00:27:50.339 Judging them. 00:27:50.559 --> 00:27:54.200 But also helping them to come to grips with who he is. 00:27:54.279 --> 00:27:55.919 His own moral character. 00:27:56.639 --> 00:28:01.359 That is made evident in his description of himself through the law. 00:28:02.299 --> 00:28:03.700 The righteous God. 00:28:04.779 --> 00:28:09.039 The one who has purity and radiant character. 00:28:10.119 --> 00:28:11.279 He is holy. 00:28:11.559 --> 00:28:13.159 As we saw in Isaiah. 00:28:13.960 --> 00:28:15.240 But in righteousness. 00:28:15.839 --> 00:28:18.240 He sets himself apart from everything. 00:28:18.240 --> 00:28:19.839 And every one. 00:28:20.519 --> 00:28:21.400 That has been created. 00:28:24.099 --> 00:28:26.279 The Old Testament conveys his purity. 00:28:27.539 --> 00:28:32.059 It conveys his true character of justice. 00:28:34.160 --> 00:28:36.700 And as we have seen through the book of Isaiah. 00:28:36.880 --> 00:28:40.160 The justice of God causes God to act. 00:28:40.460 --> 00:28:41.819 Not just to stand still. 00:28:41.940 --> 00:28:44.960 But to engage in the events of this world. 00:28:44.960 --> 00:28:48.200 In helping to deliver those who are oppressed. 00:28:48.579 --> 00:28:52.160 In coming to the rescue of individuals who have been mistreated. 00:28:53.299 --> 00:28:54.980 Of having a heart for the widow. 00:28:55.539 --> 00:28:56.380 And the orphan. 00:28:57.019 --> 00:28:58.140 For those who are oppressed. 00:28:58.279 --> 00:29:01.360 Those are the people that God has a heart for. 00:29:01.460 --> 00:29:03.340 Because of his righteousness. 00:29:04.120 --> 00:29:05.539 Because of his justice. 00:29:05.539 --> 00:29:11.399 And certainly that message would have resonated with this bunch of people. 00:29:12.119 --> 00:29:14.460 That Zachariah is writing to at this time. 00:29:15.920 --> 00:29:18.279 A group of individuals who have been pushed around. 00:29:19.079 --> 00:29:25.099 A group of individuals who for 70 years had experienced the oppression of captivity. 00:29:25.099 --> 00:29:27.599 Were finally able to come home. 00:29:27.759 --> 00:29:29.299 And even in coming home. 00:29:29.299 --> 00:29:35.599 The government officials of the local region are manipulating them. 00:29:35.799 --> 00:29:38.179 And making life very difficult for them. 00:29:38.539 --> 00:29:39.279 What do they need? 00:29:39.339 --> 00:29:40.699 They need a righteous. 00:29:41.319 --> 00:29:44.459 A righteous one to come to their cause. 00:29:45.119 --> 00:29:48.719 Somebody who will understand what they're going through. 00:29:48.959 --> 00:29:53.219 And will exercise a measure of vengeance and justice in their situation. 00:29:53.220 --> 00:30:01.319 But righteousness without power is of no help. 00:30:02.519 --> 00:30:04.860 And that's why we find in this passage. 00:30:04.960 --> 00:30:09.920 We find in this verse that righteousness of God is coupled with salvation. 00:30:10.880 --> 00:30:13.539 With the mighty work of God. 00:30:13.640 --> 00:30:15.059 The power of God. 00:30:15.559 --> 00:30:17.640 Endowed on the life of Messiah. 00:30:18.120 --> 00:30:23.200 To actually put to practice the things that he knows to be correct and true. 00:30:23.220 --> 00:30:29.660 In salvation is one who is endowed with help from God. 00:30:30.259 --> 00:30:34.660 Furnished with the assistance of God to carry out his plans. 00:30:35.620 --> 00:30:39.079 It's similar to what we saw last week from Micah chapter 5. 00:30:39.759 --> 00:30:41.019 Let me remind you of that verse. 00:30:41.140 --> 00:30:41.440 It says, 00:30:41.799 --> 00:30:44.079 He will stand, speaking of the Messiah. 00:30:44.079 --> 00:30:55.359 He has the right character. 00:30:56.399 --> 00:30:59.559 But it's reinforced with the right strength. 00:31:00.039 --> 00:31:08.079 It's reinforced with the strength of God to come and to have its way in the world around us. 00:31:08.079 --> 00:31:14.099 As the righteous one, endowed with salvation and strength. 00:31:14.099 --> 00:31:21.099 He exacts his righteousness and his justice on the earth. 00:31:23.099 --> 00:31:23.939 Simon. 00:31:24.159 --> 00:31:24.980 Remember Simon? 00:31:26.079 --> 00:31:28.740 That aged man in Bethlehem. 00:31:29.299 --> 00:31:30.740 Or in Jerusalem, I should say. 00:31:31.459 --> 00:31:37.240 As Mary and Joseph come to bring Jesus, little baby Jesus. 00:31:37.240 --> 00:31:40.000 For the purification rites. 00:31:41.160 --> 00:31:43.420 And there is Simon in this temple. 00:31:43.519 --> 00:31:46.680 It says that he was moved by the Holy Spirit. 00:31:48.279 --> 00:31:52.319 He is described as a righteous and devout man. 00:31:52.460 --> 00:31:57.880 Who devoted his entire time to serving in the temple there in Jerusalem. 00:31:57.880 --> 00:32:02.040 It says that he was waiting for the consolation of Israel. 00:32:03.820 --> 00:32:08.480 He was waiting and anticipating the great day when the Messiah would come. 00:32:09.500 --> 00:32:16.580 And he was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until he got to actually behold the Messiah himself. 00:32:17.940 --> 00:32:27.040 This great man, Simeon, who would otherwise be in the backdrop had it not been for the gospel writer telling us his story. 00:32:27.880 --> 00:32:38.300 In anticipating the coming of the Messiah, listen to what Simeon says when he sees Jesus. 00:32:39.360 --> 00:32:39.820 He says, 00:32:39.820 --> 00:32:43.820 Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace. 00:32:44.620 --> 00:32:48.980 According to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation. 00:32:49.820 --> 00:32:52.560 That you have prepared in the presence of all the peoples. 00:32:52.900 --> 00:32:57.720 Light for the revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people. 00:32:57.720 --> 00:32:58.140 Israel. 00:32:59.460 --> 00:33:01.500 These two would stand together. 00:33:01.980 --> 00:33:03.420 Savior and King. 00:33:05.100 --> 00:33:06.299 Simeon understood it. 00:33:07.200 --> 00:33:08.600 Simeon got it. 00:33:09.860 --> 00:33:11.860 He was anticipating the King. 00:33:12.079 --> 00:33:14.539 But a King that would not be overshadowed. 00:33:15.680 --> 00:33:17.279 By the fact that he was Savior. 00:33:17.600 --> 00:33:18.519 But would accompany. 00:33:19.059 --> 00:33:21.319 Would accompany these two truths. 00:33:21.579 --> 00:33:22.440 Standing together. 00:33:23.180 --> 00:33:23.539 King. 00:33:24.440 --> 00:33:25.299 And Savior. 00:33:25.299 --> 00:33:29.379 And he caught a glimpse of how salvation would come. 00:33:31.779 --> 00:33:35.579 Perhaps even reading from this verse in Zechariah. 00:33:36.899 --> 00:33:37.700 He goes on. 00:33:38.500 --> 00:33:39.559 He goes on. 00:33:39.819 --> 00:33:40.619 Simeon does. 00:33:41.000 --> 00:33:44.399 And he describes what is going to happen to the Savior. 00:33:45.399 --> 00:33:45.779 He says, 00:33:45.779 --> 00:33:50.519 Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and the rising of many in Israel. 00:33:51.160 --> 00:33:53.299 And for a sign that is opposed. 00:33:53.720 --> 00:33:56.160 And a sword will pierce through your own soul. 00:33:57.039 --> 00:33:57.899 Speaking to Mary. 00:33:58.960 --> 00:34:03.059 So that the thoughts from many hearts may be revealed. 00:34:04.139 --> 00:34:06.399 He would be the righteous Savior. 00:34:06.940 --> 00:34:08.199 The righteous King. 00:34:08.360 --> 00:34:10.619 But he would also be the humble Savior. 00:34:11.059 --> 00:34:13.259 He is the humble Savior. 00:34:13.260 --> 00:34:18.820 And when the prophet Zechariah speaks of the humility of Christ. 00:34:19.520 --> 00:34:21.640 It can be translated a number of different ways. 00:34:21.740 --> 00:34:24.200 It can be translated as gentleness. 00:34:25.440 --> 00:34:29.160 But Isaiah often translates this word as afflicted. 00:34:29.760 --> 00:34:30.680 Or as poor. 00:34:31.860 --> 00:34:36.160 That should resonate in our hearts when we think about this humble King. 00:34:36.159 --> 00:34:41.599 Because humility is often accompanied by hardship. 00:34:42.819 --> 00:34:45.219 And that is true of our Savior Jesus. 00:34:45.539 --> 00:34:50.519 And Simeon in recognizing that Jesus would come as Savior and King. 00:34:50.639 --> 00:34:53.719 Also understood that he would come in humility. 00:34:54.539 --> 00:34:56.980 He would come as one who would be afflicted. 00:34:57.799 --> 00:35:01.719 He would come as the one who would carry our hardship. 00:35:01.719 --> 00:35:05.899 He is the humble Savior riding on a donkey. 00:35:07.480 --> 00:35:08.719 He recognized. 00:35:10.419 --> 00:35:13.659 These two aspects of the Messiah were inseparable. 00:35:15.739 --> 00:35:18.619 Wound together to present one message. 00:35:18.899 --> 00:35:19.659 The good news. 00:35:20.179 --> 00:35:20.699 The gospel. 00:35:21.319 --> 00:35:24.480 The gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 00:35:26.059 --> 00:35:27.679 The gospel of salvation. 00:35:27.679 --> 00:35:29.539 His Lordship. 00:35:30.019 --> 00:35:31.699 And the salvation that he brings. 00:35:33.440 --> 00:35:34.699 But what is significant? 00:35:36.319 --> 00:35:38.480 The significance of this final picture. 00:35:38.639 --> 00:35:41.500 The humble King riding on a donkey. 00:35:41.719 --> 00:35:43.139 Why a donkey? 00:35:43.980 --> 00:35:47.440 Why would he be coming into Jerusalem on a donkey? 00:35:48.440 --> 00:35:52.239 Well if you turn to Zechariah 9 verse 10. 00:35:52.399 --> 00:35:54.819 We begin to fill out this picture. 00:35:54.820 --> 00:35:57.340 Why a donkey and not a horse? 00:35:57.539 --> 00:36:01.000 Why not in the splendor of victory? 00:36:02.019 --> 00:36:02.860 Well here's why. 00:36:05.280 --> 00:36:07.460 I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim. 00:36:08.160 --> 00:36:10.100 And the war horse from Jerusalem. 00:36:10.280 --> 00:36:12.740 And the battle bow shall be cut off. 00:36:13.180 --> 00:36:16.160 And he shall speak peace to the nations. 00:36:16.800 --> 00:36:19.220 His rule shall be from sea to sea. 00:36:19.480 --> 00:36:22.080 And from the river to the ends of the earth. 00:36:23.640 --> 00:36:24.500 Why a donkey? 00:36:24.500 --> 00:36:24.599 Why? 00:36:26.000 --> 00:36:29.000 Because the message of this humble King. 00:36:29.960 --> 00:36:31.599 Was a message of peace. 00:36:32.000 --> 00:36:33.179 Not a message of war. 00:36:34.980 --> 00:36:37.500 The people of Israel had understood the war horse. 00:36:38.159 --> 00:36:41.639 This was the growing war machine. 00:36:41.840 --> 00:36:46.079 And the escalation of military strategy during that day. 00:36:46.539 --> 00:36:49.920 Helped to understand the significance of the war horse. 00:36:50.079 --> 00:36:53.559 And bringing victory to its conquering nations. 00:36:53.559 --> 00:36:58.860 But Jesus in coming to Jerusalem would not come as a conquering king. 00:36:59.019 --> 00:37:01.840 He would become as a king of peace. 00:37:02.159 --> 00:37:03.820 A king of humility. 00:37:04.159 --> 00:37:07.940 A king who offered salvation to any who would believe. 00:37:07.940 --> 00:37:15.200 The king whose peace would eventually cover the entire globe. 00:37:15.199 --> 00:37:16.199 Every nation. 00:37:16.199 --> 00:37:16.839 Every nation. 00:37:16.839 --> 00:37:17.199 Every tribe. 00:37:17.199 --> 00:37:17.779 Every tribe. 00:37:17.779 --> 00:37:18.480 Every tongue. 00:37:18.659 --> 00:37:23.439 Every people would enjoy the benefits of this peace giving king. 00:37:23.440 --> 00:37:23.539 King. 00:37:24.039 --> 00:37:27.720 And that's why Jesus came on a donkey. 00:37:28.340 --> 00:37:33.000 To symbolize for the world his purpose. 00:37:33.000 --> 00:37:34.039 His strategy. 00:37:35.039 --> 00:37:38.440 His strategy not as coming as a conquering king. 00:37:38.440 --> 00:37:40.780 But his strategy in offering peace. 00:37:41.460 --> 00:37:43.280 Peace to any who would believe in him. 00:37:44.820 --> 00:37:49.659 This was not only the message during the triumphal entry. 00:37:49.780 --> 00:37:52.240 This was the message at Jesus' birth. 00:37:52.320 --> 00:37:52.800 Do you remember? 00:37:53.579 --> 00:37:57.639 Remember how the angels spoke to the shepherds? 00:37:57.639 --> 00:38:01.359 Glory to God in the highest and on earth. 00:38:01.359 --> 00:38:05.019 Peace among those with whom he is pleased. 00:38:07.900 --> 00:38:11.199 And as the masses celebrated his coming into Jerusalem. 00:38:11.819 --> 00:38:14.019 They said blessed be the name of the Lord. 00:38:14.440 --> 00:38:19.019 Peace in heaven and glory in the highest. 00:38:19.019 --> 00:38:20.259 Peace in heaven and glory in the highest. 00:38:20.259 --> 00:38:21.960 As a humble king. 00:38:22.579 --> 00:38:24.579 Jesus comes to offer peace. 00:38:25.320 --> 00:38:28.659 To any who will partake of it. 00:38:30.159 --> 00:38:34.759 But just as Jesus would not be king to the Jews without being a savior. 00:38:35.900 --> 00:38:40.360 Jesus will not be your savior this morning unless he is your king. 00:38:41.480 --> 00:38:43.780 Is Jesus your king today? 00:38:45.199 --> 00:38:46.460 You see we want a savior. 00:38:46.460 --> 00:38:46.539 Savior. 00:38:47.659 --> 00:38:51.139 We're okay with Jesus coming as savior. 00:38:51.880 --> 00:38:54.699 We're okay with him healing our sicknesses. 00:38:54.820 --> 00:38:58.679 We're okay with him bailing us out when we get into trouble. 00:38:59.300 --> 00:39:05.000 We're okay with him coming as savior and correcting any of our financial issues. 00:39:05.360 --> 00:39:09.300 We're helping to resolve any of the conflicts we have in relationships. 00:39:09.699 --> 00:39:16.260 We're helping to provide us direction for the future because we're so confused about what to do down the road. 00:39:16.460 --> 00:39:19.460 We're okay with him being savior. 00:39:19.460 --> 00:39:24.840 But so often we want him to have no part of telling us what to do as king. 00:39:25.139 --> 00:39:27.039 We don't want a master. 00:39:27.380 --> 00:39:28.539 We don't want a lord. 00:39:28.659 --> 00:39:31.639 We just want someone to come and to fix our problems. 00:39:31.639 --> 00:39:32.039 Jesus. 00:39:32.039 --> 00:39:36.400 But he will not be your savior this morning unless he is your king. 00:39:38.199 --> 00:39:45.279 Jesus extends as the humble son of God. 00:39:45.839 --> 00:39:49.480 Extends to all of us this morning his yoke. 00:39:50.480 --> 00:39:52.559 Here's how he describes his yoke. 00:39:52.559 --> 00:39:54.179 He says, 00:39:54.179 --> 00:39:54.739 Come to me. 00:39:55.739 --> 00:40:00.840 All you who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. 00:40:01.980 --> 00:40:06.840 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me for I am gentle. 00:40:07.380 --> 00:40:09.860 The same word as we find in Zechariah. 00:40:10.279 --> 00:40:14.039 And lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls. 00:40:14.340 --> 00:40:18.039 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. 00:40:18.039 --> 00:40:24.139 But this is not the savior we want. 00:40:25.840 --> 00:40:27.500 But this is the savior we need. 00:40:29.079 --> 00:40:30.300 I mean let's be honest. 00:40:31.460 --> 00:40:32.259 Let's be honest. 00:40:32.340 --> 00:40:35.800 As we take an honest inventory of our lives. 00:40:35.940 --> 00:40:37.239 In the decisions that we make. 00:40:37.980 --> 00:40:40.639 Outside of the instruction in the word. 00:40:40.800 --> 00:40:41.860 How is that going for you? 00:40:42.639 --> 00:40:43.840 How does that go for me? 00:40:43.940 --> 00:40:45.599 Let me tell you it doesn't go well. 00:40:45.599 --> 00:40:50.400 When I become the master of my own life. 00:40:50.839 --> 00:40:53.960 When I take charge of the decisions that I make. 00:40:54.219 --> 00:40:56.259 It often goes very badly for me. 00:40:57.759 --> 00:41:00.299 Because I'm not going to experience peace. 00:41:00.880 --> 00:41:03.639 Unless I follow the instruction of the God of peace. 00:41:04.639 --> 00:41:07.199 I'm not going to experience true salvation. 00:41:07.480 --> 00:41:11.099 Until I submit myself to the lordship of the king. 00:41:11.519 --> 00:41:12.659 Because he is both. 00:41:12.719 --> 00:41:15.159 He is king and savior today. 00:41:15.599 --> 00:41:19.279 Do you know him as king and savior? 00:41:22.139 --> 00:41:24.559 This is the good news of Christmas. 00:41:25.659 --> 00:41:27.579 This is the good news of Christmas. 00:41:28.539 --> 00:41:32.819 May we crown him king this morning. 00:41:34.279 --> 00:41:36.019 And so as we think about students. 00:41:36.139 --> 00:41:37.519 As you think about the future. 00:41:37.519 --> 00:41:40.679 As you think about the priorities. 00:41:40.679 --> 00:41:42.679 In the trajectory of your life. 00:41:43.179 --> 00:41:46.099 Think about orienting your heart and your life. 00:41:46.259 --> 00:41:48.059 In the context of the king. 00:41:49.400 --> 00:41:51.800 That's when life will be truly meaningful. 00:41:52.860 --> 00:41:55.360 That's when life will go well for you. 00:41:56.000 --> 00:41:58.420 As you already begin to ask God. 00:41:58.420 --> 00:42:01.000 To guide and direct your heart. 00:42:01.099 --> 00:42:03.519 In what the future might look like for you. 00:42:05.579 --> 00:42:07.740 For those of you who are a little older. 00:42:07.739 --> 00:42:13.199 How is God showing up as king in your workplace? 00:42:14.419 --> 00:42:16.259 When you're mistreated by a boss. 00:42:16.979 --> 00:42:21.399 Or a fellow worker steals your ideas and takes credit for them. 00:42:22.159 --> 00:42:25.299 Or you get passed over for that promotion. 00:42:25.299 --> 00:42:27.819 That you had set your hopes on. 00:42:27.820 --> 00:42:31.600 Or the work day. 00:42:31.740 --> 00:42:38.660 You're just not appreciated for all that you contribute to the particular work environment. 00:42:38.940 --> 00:42:41.400 No one seems to recognize your value. 00:42:45.280 --> 00:42:47.220 Is Christ still king in your life? 00:42:48.360 --> 00:42:52.740 Are you working heartily as to the Lord and not to men? 00:42:54.019 --> 00:42:56.039 That's what your king has called you to do. 00:42:56.039 --> 00:42:58.679 And that's when things will go well for you. 00:42:59.440 --> 00:43:01.960 As you crown him king of your life. 00:43:02.099 --> 00:43:05.639 In every sphere of life that you're in. 00:43:06.900 --> 00:43:07.699 How about family? 00:43:08.460 --> 00:43:10.960 Whether you're a grandparent or a parent this morning. 00:43:11.159 --> 00:43:14.559 Or anticipating being a parent at some point. 00:43:15.980 --> 00:43:18.880 How does Christ showing up in your family? 00:43:19.119 --> 00:43:20.159 In your relationships? 00:43:21.400 --> 00:43:24.259 How are you letting him guide your day to day? 00:43:24.260 --> 00:43:27.980 Is he king of your life day by day? 00:43:28.040 --> 00:43:30.020 Or is he only king on Sundays? 00:43:32.520 --> 00:43:34.400 If we want him to be savior. 00:43:35.200 --> 00:43:36.080 And he's going to be king. 00:43:36.760 --> 00:43:37.680 Across the board. 00:43:38.400 --> 00:43:39.320 Moment by moment. 00:43:39.700 --> 00:43:42.940 As you submit and surrender your life to the king. 00:43:43.680 --> 00:43:46.020 He wants to be lord over your life. 00:43:46.860 --> 00:43:48.600 His yoke is easy. 00:43:48.840 --> 00:43:50.720 And his burden is light. 00:43:50.719 --> 00:43:53.480 Let him be your king. 00:43:54.579 --> 00:43:59.219 And then we'll experience the joy of him being our savior. 00:43:59.559 --> 00:44:00.279 Let's pray. 00:44:03.219 --> 00:44:05.039 Lord it's our desire this morning. 00:44:05.699 --> 00:44:10.119 To recommit ourselves to Christ the king. 00:44:10.119 --> 00:44:14.299 We're grateful that you are savior. 00:44:15.000 --> 00:44:17.819 We're grateful that you show up when times are dark. 00:44:18.400 --> 00:44:21.579 We're grateful that your mercy is new every moment. 00:44:21.719 --> 00:44:22.719 Every morning. 00:44:23.460 --> 00:44:25.219 Because great is your faithfulness. 00:44:26.219 --> 00:44:28.179 Thank you lord for forgiveness of sin. 00:44:28.319 --> 00:44:29.920 Thank you for cleansing. 00:44:30.420 --> 00:44:32.579 Thank you for rescue and deliverance. 00:44:32.960 --> 00:44:34.420 Thank you that you are a savior. 00:44:34.420 --> 00:44:38.220 May we not lose sight of the fact that you are also king. 00:44:40.800 --> 00:44:42.240 Be king for us today. 00:44:43.460 --> 00:44:46.980 We crown you king over every aspect of life. 00:44:48.340 --> 00:44:51.800 We pray that you would be magnified. 00:44:52.639 --> 00:44:53.519 In all that we are. 00:44:54.180 --> 00:44:55.159 And do and say. 00:44:55.760 --> 00:44:56.579 In Jesus name. 00:44:57.180 --> 00:44:57.440 Amen. 00:44:57.440 --> 00:44:57.539 Amen. 00:44:57.539 --> 00:44:57.599 Amen.