Introduction
We have taken a break from Acts for a few weeks to observe and celebrate Easter, so before we jump into the heart of the story, let's take a moment to set the stage for where we will be in today’s message. Acts 19:11-20 gives us a glimpse into the spiritual atmosphere of the city of Ephesus. It was a time of incredible miracles — people were being healed, demons were being cast out, and the Gospel was spreading like wildfire. Paul’s ministry had been so powerful that even pieces of cloth he touched were being used to heal the sick. Meanwhile, some amateur exorcists, the seven sons of Sceva, tried to imitate Paul, only to get beaten up by a demon who frankly wasn’t impressed by them. The city was shaken, people burned expensive magic books, and a real revival broke out. All that to say: by the time we get to Acts 19:21, things were buzzing.

Acts 19:21-41

Paul Sets His Sights on New Horizons
After all the miracles and commotion, Paul gets this deep sense in his spirit that it's time to move on. He plans to pass through Macedonia and Achaia, head down to Jerusalem, and eventually get to Rome. Whether this “compelled by the Spirit” moment came from Paul's internal drive or a prompting by the Holy Spirit is up for debate. Theologians like John Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck suggest that the verb indicates more of a personal decision than a direct leading. Either way, Paul knew it was time for the next chapter.

But before leaving, Paul wanted to ensure the churches he had planted were doing okay. He wasn’t just about planting and running; he cared about strengthening the believers and, very practically, about gathering financial help for the struggling church in Jerusalem.

Still, despite his plans, Paul’s journey to Rome wouldn't go as he imagined. He would eventually get there, albeit in chains. The same goes for us, often. We think we know the road ahead and where God wants us to go, and God has the same destination in mind, but he may take us on a completely unexpected route.

Meanwhile, Paul sent his trusted friends, Timothy and Erastus, to Macedonia to prepare the way, while he stayed a little longer in Asia. But while Paul lingered, trouble was brewing.

Business Is Booming — Until It's Not
Enter Demetrius. This guy was a skilled craftsman and businessman who specialized in making silver shrines for the goddess Artemis (A.K.A. Diana). He was like a peddler selling souvenirs outside a famous tourist site; it was a cash cow. Business was good—until it wasn’t.

With Paul preaching about Jesus, the one true God who doesn’t live in temples made by human hands, people were turning away from idols. Revival was great for the Kingdom of God, but not so good for the local idol-making economy.

Demetrius wasn't about to let that slide. So, he gathered his fellow craftsmen and gave them a passionate speech. He could’ve been honest and said, "Hey guys, we’re losing money!" But no, he framed it in much nobler terms. He warned them that Artemis was being disrespected, that her magnificent temple might fall into disrepute. It sounds religious and patriotic, but this was all about the bottom line.

Commentator and Bible teacher Ajith Fernando puts it well: the root of the opposition was jealousy. Like in Philippi, the economic hit was masked by a smokescreen of religious and civic outrage. The Temple of Artemis wasn't just a place of worship but a significant part of the Ephesian economy. Pilgrims came from far and wide to visit and spend money. Losing Artemis was like losing their major tourist attraction, spiritual identity, and financial stability all in one go.

And to give you some background on Artemis—the Greek version of Diana—the Ephesians had their own unique spin. Instead of the sleek, athletic huntress we usually picture from Greek mythology, the Artemis of Ephesus was portrayed differently. She was a multi-breasted figure, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and life. Her image blended aspects of a fertility cult with local and ancient traditions, making her worship deeply ingrained in the city's identity. According to legend, her sacred statue had fallen from the sky—possibly a meteorite—which only reinforced the belief that her presence in Ephesus was divinely appointed.

To honor her, the Ephesians built a massive temple that became one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was an architectural marvel: grand in scale, richly adorned with fine sculptures, and so famous that people traveled worldwide to see it. It wasn’t just a religious center; it was the pride of Ephesus, an economic hub, and a powerful symbol of the city's devotion and cultural importance.

Given all that, you can see why Demetrius was so worked up. His whole world—financial, spiritual, cultural—was under threat.

The Not So Quiet Riot
Demetrius knew exactly what he was doing. His fiery speech worked. Soon, the craftsmen were shouting, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" repeatedly. The commotion grew. People poured into the streets. It was loud, chaotic, and confusing.

Things got so out of hand that the mob seized two of Paul's companions, Gaius and Aristarchus, and dragged them into the theater—a massive open-air venue that could hold thousands.

Paul, ever the bold one, wanted to rush in and address the crowd. But his friends practically tackled him to keep him safe. They knew Paul’s presence could ignite an even bigger explosion.
Meanwhile, the crowd was a hot mess. People were shouting and arguing, and most of them had no idea what they were protesting.

A Jewish man named Alexander tried to speak—maybe to defend the Jewish community and distance them from "The Way" Paul was preaching—but as soon as the crowd realized he was a Jew, they shouted him down. For two solid hours, they screamed, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!"

It was pure mob hysteria. Chaos was king.

Finally, the town clerk—an official charged with keeping peace and representing the city to the Roman government—stepped in. In a remarkably level-headed speech, he calmed the crowd down. He said, “Look, everyone knows Ephesus is the guardian of Artemis’ temple. They can take it to court if Demetrius and the craftsmen have a legitimate complaint. Otherwise, we’re in real danger of being accused of starting a riot, and Rome does NOT play around with civil unrest.”

The clerk’s warning worked. The crowd dispersed, grumbling but obedient. Crisis averted—for now.

Vindication for the Early Christians
Once again, Christianity stood firm. The Gospel wasn't crushed under the weight of a riotous crowd. Christianity came out looking even stronger.

Author and Pastor James Montgomery Boice observes: "There is not a soul living in the world today who worships 'Artemis of the Ephesians.” But millions upon millions still worship Jesus Christ. All the shouting, the threats, the attacks—they couldn’t stop the truth. They couldn’t stop the Church. They couldn’t stop God.

And you know what? That's still true today.

Christianity has been attacked for centuries. People have declared that "God is dead," they've tried to legislate Him out of public life, and they've mocked believers in every way imaginable. And yet, God remains. He doesn't need to panic. He doesn't need to run a PR campaign. He's secure. He’s still on His throne.

As Christians, we often feel we must "defend" God. But honestly? God doesn’t need defending. He’s not wringing His hands in heaven whenever a new cultural theory pops up or people claim He doesn’t exist. He's not pacing back and forth in worry and fear when culture wants to silence the Gospel or declare it irrelevant for today.  He isn’t seeking a campaign manager to put a positive spin on Him and his Kingdom policies.

No, our God is rock-solid. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever. No protest, angry mob, scientific discovery, or public policy can dethrone Him.

And here’s what that means for us: we can rest. We don't have to live in fear whenever the world turns darker. We don't have to jump into every online argument or feel like Christianity is losing every time culture shifts.

God’s not losing. He’s winning. He’s already won.

One day, He will vindicate all His people publicly, unmistakably. Until then, our job is to trust Him, love Him, share the Gospel, and stay faithful no matter the cultural climate.

Philippians 2:9–11 says, “Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

You may recall that old country song by Alabama (yes, I am referencing a country song) titled, "You can't keep a good man down"? Well, it's even truer for our God. You can't keep the holy, loving, merciful, omnipotent, omnipresent God down.

What We Can Learn from This Encounter:

1. Rest in God's Sovereignty:
   We don't need to live in panic or despair as culture shifts. God is unthreatened by cultural opposition. He is firmly in control, and His purposes will prevail. Our peace comes from knowing He reigns, not from winning every argument.
   
   
2. Stay Faithful Without Fear:
   Our calling isn’t to "rescue" God’s reputation or fight every battle. We don’t need to defend his reputation, because for the most part, humanity seems to do a far better job of making God and Christianity look bad rather than better. Our job is not to defend his reputation, it is to be faithful witnesses—sharing the Gospel with love and boldness, trusting that God will vindicate His truth in His time.
   
   
3. Remember the Long View:
   History belongs to Jesus. Temporary setbacks, cultural hostility, even seasons of suffering, will not change the final outcome. One day, every knee will bow to Christ. Sure, the world we live in today may feel hopeless, chaotic, and even uncertain, but our trust cannot be placed in the here and now. As believers, we have hope because our trust and faithfulness do not depend on politics, people, or philosophy; it is in Jesus Christ. So, we can live with confidence and joy, knowing the end of the story is already written. The world can point us to fear, and people will try to lead us down paths of despair. They will protest, legislate, curse, deny, and forget. But God remains.
   
   ​He always has.
   
   ​He always will.

Introduction
Today, people all around the world are celebrating. Kids search for brightly colored eggs (or potatoes???) tucked away in tall grass or behind living room furniture. Chocolate bunnies are being gnawed down to the ears, baskets are overflowing, and kitchens are busy with the aroma of ham, casseroles, and sweet rolls being prepared for the big family gathering. It’s a joyful day, no doubt about that.

While all of that can be a fun and meaningful part of the day—gathering with loved ones, celebrating together—we know there’s something even deeper, more powerful, and truly life-changing at the heart of Easter.

For us as followers of Jesus, Easter isn’t just about springtime festivities or spending time with family, though both can be beautiful blessings. Easter, at its core, is a day when we pause to remember and rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It’s the most significant day on our calendar, the turning point of history, and the foundation of our faith.

If you grew up in a traditional church setting, you might remember how Easter morning begins—not with eggs or chocolate, but with a special greeting. The pastor proclaims, “He is risen!” And the congregation joyfully responds, “He is risen indeed!”

What a powerful declaration. It’s not just a ritual or a catchy phrase. It’s the very heart of the Gospel.

Luke 24:1-12

The Center of Our Faith
Easter is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan, which He has been unfolding since the very beginning. Jesus's death and resurrection are not side notes to our faith—they’re the center. The cross and the empty tomb are the hinges on which the door of salvation swings.

That’s why the season of Lent—those 40 days leading up to today—is traditionally set aside as a time of reflection and preparation. Many people fast or give something up during Lent to realign their hearts with God. While fasting is good, the danger is forgetting why. Some folks break their fast today without considering what it was all about in the first place. But we’re not here to break a diet. We’re here to celebrate a Savior who broke the power of sin and death.

For many people—maybe even some of you sitting here today—Easter doesn’t carry much spiritual significance. It might just be a time to gather with family, take a few pictures, and enjoy the day. And hey, spending time with loved ones is a good thing. But if Easter is just bunnies and brunch, we’ve missed the point.

For the unbeliever, the idea of the resurrection might seem like a sweet story at best—or a wild conspiracy at worst. Some see it as a myth or religious propaganda used to manipulate people. But for those of us who believe, for those of us who have staked our very lives on Jesus, Easter isn’t a nice idea—it’s everything. It’s the anchor for our souls.

When we declare “He is risen indeed,” we’re not reciting a cute Easter slogan. We are proclaiming the Gospel—the greatest news the world has ever known. We’re declaring that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, lived a sinless life, died a sacrificial death, and rose again in victory. And that changes everything.

The Cross Comes First
Let’s take a moment to look at 1 Corinthians 2:1 - 5.
Paul had a lot of knowledge. He was an intellectual, a trained Pharisee, a brilliant man. But when he showed up to preach, he stripped it down to one simple, powerful message: Jesus Christ, who was crucified.

The cross of Calvary is central to our faith. Without it, there is no forgiveness, no atonement for sin, and no salvation. Without it, we are still lost and separated from God.

Now here’s the thing—we talk about the cross a lot. We wear it on necklaces, we display it in our homes, we see it on steeples and bumper stickers. But if we’re not careful, it can start to feel common. Familiar. We lose the weight of it.

Let me remind you—the cross was brutal. Jesus didn’t just die; He suffered. He was mocked, beaten, nailed to a piece of wood, and left to die in public shame. And He did it for you. For me. For a world caught in the grip of sin.

Why such a horrific death? Because sin is serious. Romans 3:23 says, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard."

That means you, me, your sweet grandma—everyone. And the consequence of sin is separation from God, which ultimately leads to death.

You might think, “Okay, I’ve messed up—but I’m not that bad. I try to be a good person. I go to church. I say my prayers.” And listen, that’s all fine and good—but the reality is, none of us can earn our way back to God. Not with good behavior. Not with church attendance. Not even with the best intentions.

But here’s the good news--the best news. God didn’t leave us in our sin. He loved us so much that He sent His Son to take our place. As John 3:16 says, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

This is the Gospel.

The Empty Tomb
But here’s the truth—if the story ended with Jesus dying on the cross, it would not be good news. It would be just another tragedy. Another martyr. Another broken dream.

But Easter tells us the story didn’t end at the cross. Three days after His death, Jesus rose from the dead. He didn’t rise as a ghost or a symbol—He rose physically. He stood up and walked out of the grave. He appeared to both Marys and to His disciples. He ate with them. He showed them the scars in His hands and feet.

Jesus is alive.

And this changes everything.

Paul puts it plainly in 1 Corinthians 15:14: “And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless.”

In other words, if the resurrection didn’t happen, we’re all wasting our time. If Jesus is still dead, then our faith is dead too. But if He is alive—and I believe with everything in me that He is—then our faith is built on something real, something powerful, and something eternal.
So, why is the Resurrection so important to our faith?  Below are five reasons…
​
5 Reasons the Resurrection is Imperative to Our Faith

1.  It Confirms Our Justification
   “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.”
   --Romans 4:25
   
   Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just an epic finale—it’s confirmation from God that the price for sin has been paid in full. The cross was where the payment was made, but the resurrection is where the receipt gets stamped “PAID.” Without the resurrection, we’d still be wondering if the cross worked. But because Jesus rose, we know His sacrifice was more than enough, and now we are justified—declared righteous—before God.
   
   Think about that: Jesus’ resurrection means that God looks at you and sees you as clean, whole, accepted, and loved. Not because you’ve got it all together, but because Jesus does. That’s the heart of justification. It’s not about what you’ve done for God—it’s about what Jesus has done for you, and the resurrection is the proof that it’s finished.
   
   
2. It Completes the Gospel
   A dead Savior can’t save anyone.
   
   If Jesus had stayed in the tomb, the cross would’ve been nothing more than a tragic story of a good man who was misunderstood. But because He rose from the grave, the cross becomes the place of victory, not defeat. It becomes the place where sin died, where mercy triumphed, and where eternal life begins.
   
   The resurrection completes the Gospel. Without it, the good news becomes no news at all. The resurrection is the exclamation point on the Gospel message. Jesus didn’t just die for you—He lives with you, and in you.
   
   
3. It Gives Faith Meaning
   "And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.”
   1 Corinthians 15:14
   
   Without the resurrection, faith is nothing more than a hopeful illusion—a nice idea that gives comfort but no real power. But because Jesus lives, our faith is rooted in reality. It’s grounded in a historical, flesh-and-blood event. The tomb was empty. Death was defeated. Jesus is alive.
   
   This changes everything. Your faith isn’t built on wishful thinking but on the rock-solid truth of the risen Christ. When you pray, you're not talking into the void—you’re speaking to a living Savior, to God himself. When you struggle, you're not struggling alone—you're walking with someone who overcame death itself. Our faith has meaning because Jesus gives it meaning.
   
   
4. It Enables New Birth
   “In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
   --1 Peter 1:3
   
   The resurrection doesn’t just give us hope for the future—it gives new life right now. You aren’t just forgiven because of the resurrection—you’re made new. You’ve been born again into a living hope. That’s not just religious talk—that’s transformation.
   
   This isn’t about trying harder or pretending to be better. This is about resurrection power living in you. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is the Spirit that now dwells in every believer (Romans 8:11), which means you’re not stuck in who you were. You’re being made into who you were always meant to be— fully alive in Christ.
   
   
5. It Secures Our Future Resurrection
   “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
   1 Corinthians 15:22
   
   Here’s the hope that keeps us going: because Jesus rose, we will rise too. Death doesn’t get the final word. It’s not the end—it’s just the beginning. For every person who belongs to Christ, the grave is not the end of the road. It’s a doorway into eternal life.
   
   This promise isn’t vague or symbolic—it’s personal and guaranteed. Jesus' resurrection was the firstfruits of what's coming. One day, you and I will be raised in glory, given new bodies, and welcomed into an eternal Kingdom where sin, sickness, sorrow, and death are gone forever. This is why Easter matters. It’s not just a day to celebrate a past event but to declare our future hope.
   
   

So, What Do We Do With This?
We live like it’s true, we worship like it’s true, and we hope like it’s true.
Because of the resurrection:

• You don’t have to live in guilt—you’re justified.
• You don’t have to wonder if God loves you—the Gospel shows us He does.
• You don’t have to fake it—your faith is real.
• You don’t have to stay the same—you’ve been made new.
• You don’t have to fear death—because you have life and life in abundance.

That’s why we can say with full hearts and lifted voices:
He is risen!
He is risen indeed!

Palm Sunday is a fundamental moment in the Christian calendar, marking the beginning of Holy Week and pointing directly toward Good Friday and Easter Sunday. It is a day filled with rich symbolism and deep theological meaning, celebrating Jesus's arrival in Jerusalem just days before His crucifixion. But this was not a spontaneous or random event. The triumphal entry was a carefully orchestrated moment that revealed Jesus's identity and mission in a way that demanded a response from all who witnessed it.

What makes Palm Sunday so significant is that it represents the first time Jesus publicly accepts the praise and adoration of the people as their King. Prior to this, He often instructed people not to tell others about His miracles or His identity. But on this day, He made a statement that couldn’t be ignored. His arrival in Jerusalem, welcomed by crowds waving palm branches and shouting "Hosanna!" is packed with meaning, not only for those who were there but also for modern readers seeking to understand who Jesus is and what He came to do.
The inclusion of the triumphal entry in all four Gospels highlights its central importance in the narrative of Jesus' life and mission. This moment serves as an explicit declaration of Jesus' identity as the Messiah and King. Each Gospel writer emphasizes different aspects of this event, but all agree on its significance in God's redemptive plan. The fact that the story is included in every Gospel underscores the unity of the Gospel message and the intentionality of Jesus’ actions. It calls believers to recognize Jesus not just as a figure of celebration but as the King who came to bring peace through suffering, inviting all to respond with faith, loyalty, and worship.

John 12:12 - 19
 
A City Full of Expectation
The story unfolds in the Gospels as Jesus approaches Jerusalem during the Jewish festival of Passover. The city was filled with pilgrims who had traveled from all over Israel to commemorate God’s deliverance of their ancestors from slavery in Egypt. According to ancient sources such as the historian Josephus, Jerusalem would swell with potentially millions of visitors during this time. The atmosphere would have been electric—combining celebration, expectation, and spiritual longing.

Jesus arrives on the city's outskirts, near the villages of Bethphage and Bethany by the Mount of Olives. There, He instructs two of His disciples to retrieve a young donkey, a colt that had never been ridden. This detail might appear minor to a casual reader but carries symbolic weight.

The Symbolism of the Donkey
By riding a donkey into Jerusalem, Jesus fulfills a messianic prophecy from Zechariah 9:9: "Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

This prophecy had long been interpreted as describing the coming of the Messiah. But the choice of a donkey rather than a warhorse is crucial. It signaled that Jesus was a King of peace, not war. In the ancient Near East culture, the donkey had royal connotations. For instance, archaeological findings from the Babylonian city of Mari show that donkeys and mules were commonly used in royal ceremonies. The Dictionary of Biblical Imagery notes that the riding of a donkey was a visible sign of kingship across the region. Jesus’ triumphal entry was not a last-minute decision using a convenient animal but a calculated, divinely guided choice that pointed to His kingship, humility, and mission.

From a theological and historical perspective, the image of the Messiah entering Jerusalem on a donkey would have resonated deeply with first-century Jewish listeners. In their collective memory were stories of Solomon riding a mule to be anointed king (1 Kings 1:33). This highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout Scripture. Jesus’ entry wasn’t just the fulfillment of prophecy—it was a deliberate act tying together Israel’s past, present, and future in Him. As such, Palm Sunday is a living signpost that points forward to the cross and backward to the promises of God, reminding us that Jesus is both the fulfillment and the future of our faith.

Hosanna and the Hopes of the Crowd
Jesus' action also challenged the prevailing expectations of the crowd. Many Jews at the time hoped for a Messiah who would overthrow Roman rule and restore Israel’s political independence. When Jesus rode into the city, the crowds responded with enthusiasm. They laid their cloaks on the road—a traditional gesture of submission and honor—and waved palm branches, which had become a symbol of Jewish nationalism and victory. This type of celebration had historical precedent. Around 200 years earlier, Judas Maccabeus was welcomed into Jerusalem with palm branches after a significant military victory over foreign oppressors. To many in the crowd, Jesus looked like the next liberator.

They shouted, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" These words come from Psalm 118, part of a group of psalms known as the Egyptian Hallel (Psalms 113–118), which were traditionally sung during Passover. The word "Hosanna" means "save us now," blending a cry for help with a shout of praise. It captured the hopes of the people: salvation, deliverance, and divine intervention.

Heaven’s Agenda vs. Human Expectation
But while the people saw political salvation, Jesus had something far greater in mind. His mission was not to defeat Rome but to defeat sin and death. The triumphal entry is a moment where heaven's plan intersects with human expectation, revealing a Messiah who comes not to take power by force but to offer Himself in love.

The reaction of the religious leaders further emphasizes this contrast. In Luke’s account, some Pharisees urge Jesus to quiet the crowd. He responds, "I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out." This declaration affirms that the moment was divinely appointed. The praise being offered to Jesus could not be silenced because it was, in a sense, written into creation itself.

From Cheers to Crucifixion
Yet, the jubilant tone of Palm Sunday contains a shadow of tragedy. Within a few days, the crowd that cheered for Jesus would turn on Him. The same voices shouting "Hosanna!" would soon be yelling "Crucify Him!" What changed? The expectations of the people collided with the reality of Jesus' mission. He didn’t lead a revolt. He didn’t claim Caesar’s throne. Instead, He spoke of suffering, servanthood, and sacrifice. And for many, that was disappointing enough to abandon Him altogether.

Palm Sunday, then, becomes a lens through which we can examine our own expectations of Jesus. Do we worship Him only when He meets our desires? Or do we follow Him even when the path leads to a cross? The triumphal entry forces us to confront what kind of King Jesus really is and what kind of disciples we are willing to be.

Faithful Praise in Every Season
It also invites us to reflect on the nature of praise and faith. Are our “Hosannas” tied to favorable circumstances, or are they rooted in the unchanging truth of who Jesus is? The call of Palm Sunday is not just to rejoice but to remain—to stay faithful through the highs and lows of the journey.

As Holy Week unfolds, Palm Sunday stands as both a celebration and a challenge. It celebrates the arrival of the King who brings peace, not through conquest, but through His own suffering and resurrection. It challenges believers to move beyond momentary enthusiasm and toward lasting commitment. In this way, the palm branches laid at Jesus' feet become more than just ancient symbols. They represent a choice each of us must make: Will we follow Jesus on His terms, or ours?

The Invitation of Palm Sunday
In the final analysis, Palm Sunday is not just about a moment in history. It is an invitation to acknowledge Jesus as King—not only in celebration, but in suffering; not only in victory, but also in the valley. It asks us to lay down not just palm branches, but our pride, our expectations, and our lives.

To accept this invitation is to walk a path that will include both cheers and challenges. We are called to follow Jesus not because the road is easy but because He alone is worthy. That means praising Him even when our prayers go unanswered, trusting Him when life feels uncertain, and remaining faithful when discipleship feels costly.

Palm Sunday reminds us that true worship is not seasonal or circumstantial. It is a daily decision to recognize Christ’s authority, embrace His mission, and yield to His timing. As we enter Holy Week, we’re invited to live in the tension between triumph and trial, holding fast to the hope that the road paved with palm branches ultimately leads to an empty tomb.
So, what does Palm Sunday ask of us today?
​

• To crown Jesus King not just in word but in deed.
  
• To trust His purposes, even when they unfold differently than we expected.
  
• To remain faithful in worship, regardless of what the crowd is doing.
  
  

In doing so, we find that the story of Palm Sunday is not over. It continues in the lives of all who follow Jesus—not just with branches and banners but with surrendered hearts and steadfast faith.
 

Introduction
The journey of Paul and Silas through Berea and Athens provides key insights into their evangelistic strategy, the opposition they faced, and the methods they used to engage different audiences. Their experiences highlight the necessity of perseverance in ministry, the role of discernment in accepting teachings, and the importance of contextualizing the gospel message for diverse listeners. Throughout their travels, Paul and Silas encountered both enthusiastic reception and intense resistance, demonstrating that the spread of the gospel often comes with challenges. Their story underscores the importance of discerning truth through scripture, actively engaging in evangelism, and remaining immovable in the gospel message despite cultural and philosophical challenges. It also serves as a powerful model for modern believers in how to share their faith effectively while staying true to biblical principles.

Paul and Silas in Berea
Upon arriving in Berea, Paul and Silas encountered Jewish men in the synagogue who were described as "open-minded" than those in Thessalonica. This distinction was made because the Bereans exhibited a commendable attitude toward the gospel message. They received Paul’s teaching with eagerness and zeal but did not merely accept his words blindly. Instead, they searched the scriptures day and night to verify the truth of his message. This practice demonstrated a discernment and spiritual diligence model that remains relevant for believers today.

As a result of this scriptural examination, a revival broke out in Berea. Many Jews, as well as prominent Greek women and men, came to faith in Christ. However, opposition soon arose. Jews from Thessalonica, who had previously opposed Paul and Silas, arrived in Berea and incited a riot. This forced Paul to leave for Athens, while Silas and Timothy stayed behind in Thessalonica to continue ministering.

Paul’s departure from Berea highlights the reality of persecution in Christian ministry. While he was forced to leave, the Berean believers remained steadfast in their newfound faith, exemplifying the impact of thorough scriptural understanding. After reaching Athens, Paul called for Timothy and Silas to join him, indicating his reliance on companionship and teamwork in ministry.

Acts 17:16 - 34

Paul in Athens
While Athens was no longer at the height of its former glory, it remained a major hub for religious and philosophical thought. As Paul waited for Silas and Timothy, he observed that the city was filled with idols. The sight deeply provoked his spirit, suggesting inner agitation or distress. However, rather than responding with outrage, Paul engaged the people in conversation, reasoning with them in both the synagogue and the marketplace.
​
Paul’s approach to evangelism is noteworthy. He did not wait for opportunities to come to him but sought out discussions wherever people gathered. This demonstrates an essential principle for believers today: evangelism requires intentional engagement with the world rather than passive waiting.

Engagement with Philosophers
While in Athens, Paul encountered two prominent philosophical groups: the Epicureans and the Stoics.

• Epicureans followed Epicurus's teachings, seeking a life of pleasure and freedom from pain. Their philosophy leaned toward materialism and atheism, rejecting the notion of divine involvement in human affairs.
• Stoics were followers of Zeno. They emphasized harmony with the universe, endurance of suffering, and personal self-sufficiency. Their beliefs incorporated elements of pantheism, fatalism, and pride.
  
  

Some philosophers dismissed Paul as a "babbler," while others were intrigued by his message.
Recognizing his audience's curiosity, Paul was invited to speak at the Areopagus (Mars Hill), where philosophical and judicial discussions took place. This setting provided Paul with a captivated audience eager to hear about his “new philosophy.”

Paul’s address at Mars Hill is one of the most well-known sermons in scripture and reflects a shift in his evangelistic method. Unlike his previous messages, which were steeped in Jewish scripture, this sermon was tailored to a Gentile audience unfamiliar with Jewish beliefs.

Breakdown of His Sermon

1. Acknowledgment of Their Religious Nature – Paul began by recognizing the Athenians as religious people. Rather than immediately condemning their idolatry, he sought common ground by acknowledging their spiritual curiosity.
2. Connection Through the “Unknown God” – Paul pointed to an altar inscribed “To the Unknown God” and used it as a bridge to introduce them to the one true God.
3. Proclamation of God’s Nature – He described God as the Creator of the universe, sovereign over all things, not confined to temples, nor needing human service. He emphasized God’s role as the giver of life, His nearness to all people, and His call to repentance.
4. Use of Cultural References – To establish credibility, Paul quoted a pagan poet, affirming that humans are God’s offspring. This strategy demonstrated his ability to connect with his audience using their own cultural context.
5. Call to Repentance and the Resurrection—Paul concluded with a call to repentance, emphasizing God’s judgment and Christ's resurrection as proof of His authority.

Mixed Reactions and CriticismPaul’s message was met with mixed reactions. Some mocked the idea of resurrection, while others expressed interest in hearing more. A few individuals, including Dionysius the Areopagite and Damaris, believed and followed Paul.

Interestingly, some commentators argue that Paul failed in this sermon because he deviated from his usual approach and omitted direct scriptural references. However, others view his approach as a necessary adaptation to a different audience. Rather than compromising the gospel, Paul sought to make it accessible without altering its core message.

Should Christians Be Relevant?
The debate over Paul’s approach in Athens raises an important question: should believers strive for relevance when sharing the gospel?

• Should we use worldly methods to make the gospel relevant?
• How can we engage culture without compromising biblical truth?
  
  

This passage suggests that relevance and faithfulness can coexist. Paul effectively engaged the
Athenians by using cultural references while remaining uncompromising in his message. As Ajith Fernando aptly states, “What is most important is faithfully to proclaim the gospel. If we can find points of contact with our audience along the way, we should use them, but the gospel is always what is primary.”

Personal Application
1.  Be Proactive in Evangelism

• Like Paul, believers should actively engage people rather than waiting for opportunities.Paul didn’t sit back and hope someone would ask him about his faith—he took the initiative. In city after city, he sought people out. As believers, we’re called to be just as intentional, looking for ways to initiate meaningful conversations about Jesus
• Evangelism can occur anywhere—workplaces, schools, cafes, social gatherings. There’s no “sacred space” requirement for sharing the gospel. Every setting we step into holds potential. Whether you’re at a family dinner, on a lunch break, or chatting at a birthday party, the Spirit can use that moment for something eternal.
• Engagement does not mean being forceful; it involves thoughtful, respectful conversations. Being proactive doesn’t mean being pushy. It means listening well, asking questions, andshowing genuine care. It's about building bridges, not walls—inviting people into a conversation, not backing them into a corner.]
  
  

2.  Be Creative in Sharing the Gospel

• The gospel message is timeless, but the methods of presenting it can vary. The truth of Jesus remains the same, but the way we express it can be flexible. God wired us differently—some are storytellers, others are artists or thinkers—and we can use those gifts to share the same message in unique ways.
• Cultural references, media, and literature can serve as bridges to spiritual conversations.People already have emotional connections to music, movies, books, and current events. When we use these familiar touchpoints, we can gently shift conversations toward deeper truths without making it feel abrupt or unnatural.
• For example, using elements from popular culture, such as movies or books, can open doors to discussions about faith. A film about sacrifice or redemption, a novel wrestling with good and evil can be launchpads. When someone says, “That scene moved me,” it’s a perfect moment to say, “You know, that reminds me of something in the Bible…”

3.  Never Compromise the Message

• Creativity should never come at the cost of truth. While it’s great to be innovative, we must not dilute or distort the gospel to make it more palatable. There’s power in the unfiltered truth of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.
• The goal is not to be “trendy” but to faithfully share the message of Christ’s death, resurrection, and salvation. Trends come and go, but eternity doesn’t. Our aim isn’t to impress people—it’s to help them encounter the living Jesus. The message may not always be popular, but it is always lifegiving.
• Love and sincerity are key. People are more receptive when they sense genuine care rather than an agenda.People can smell a sales pitch from a mile away. But when we speak with compassion,authenticity, and no hidden motives, the message resonates. Let the gospel be shared from a place of love, not strategy.
  
  

Conclusion
As we reflect on Paul’s journey through Berea and Athens, we find ourselves challenged to admire his example and follow it. The Bereans were noble because they searched the Scriptures daily, measuring every word against the truth of God’s Word. What a reminder for us today in a world overflowing with opinions, trends, and spiritual shortcuts. Let us be a people who love the Word, who test everything by it, and who grow roots that run deep.

And then there’s Athens—full of idols, intellect, and endless ideas. Paul didn’t run from it; he walked right into the heart of that culture. He listened, he observed, and then he spoke—clearly, boldly, and compassionately. He didn’t change the gospel, but he did meet people where they were. That’s our call, too. Not to shout from a distance but to step into conversations, build bridges, and speak to the questions people are actually asking.

The gospel remains the power of God for salvation. It doesn’t need embellishment or dilution. However, it must be shared—with wisdom, creativity, and, above all, conviction. Let’s stay faithful to the message while being flexible in our methods. Let’s be a people who think like the Bereans and engage like Paul—rooted in Scripture and guided by the Spirit.

So, as we go out today, may we carry this truth in our hearts: that God is still sending His people into Berea and Athens—into workplaces and classrooms, coffee shops and street corners—not just to observe the culture, but to redeem it. Not to condemn the lost but to offer them life.

Let’s go with boldness, love, and the unshakable message of Jesus Christ.