John 12:12-19 reveals how both the crowds and the Pharisees got Jesus' identity wrong. The crowds expected a military messiah who would crush Rome, while the Pharisees saw Him as a dangerous impostor threatening their power. By riding into Jerusalem on a humble donkey in fulfilment of Zechariah 9:9, Jesus showed He is the humble king who conquers not through violence but through suffering, taking on our sin and shame to defeat Satan, sin, and death on the cross.

Bible Reference: John 12:12–19

Preacher: Ben Fien