Every day we make choices that shape the direction of our lives. In this message from Matthew 21, Pastor Chris Teien explains how Jesus remained focused on the Father’s will, even when obedience led toward the cross, and challenges us to make God’s priorities our own.
Jesus never allowed popularity, comfort, or public opinion to distract Him from His mission. As we obey God’s Word, receive Jesus for who He truly is, worship sincerely, value people, and seek His kingdom first, we discover the joy and purpose of living according to His priorities.
IN THIS MESSAGE
#1 WALK IN OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S PLAN
Jesus intentionally fulfilled the Father’s plan as He entered Jerusalem. True obedience means following God’s will even when it is difficult, misunderstood, unpopular, or costly. (Matthew 21:1-5; Zechariah 9:9; John 6:15)
#2 RECEIVE JESUS FOR WHO HE TRULY IS
The crowds welcomed Jesus as King but misunderstood His mission. Jesus came not merely to improve earthly circumstances but to rescue sinners, bring salvation, and establish His kingdom. We must receive Him as He has revealed Himself rather than trying to make Him fit our expectations. (Matthew 21:6-11; Psalm 118:25-26; Luke 19:38)
#3 PURSUE TRUE WORSHIP, NOT EMPTY RELIGION
Jesus cleansed the temple because God’s house was meant to be a place of worship and prayer, not religious activity without genuine devotion. True worship flows from a heart that seeks, honors, and obeys God. (Matthew 21:12-13; Isaiah 56:7; Jeremiah 7:11)
#4 VALUE PEOPLE OVER RELIGIOUS SYSTEMS
Jesus welcomed and healed people whom others ignored. God calls His people to show compassion, extend mercy, and avoid allowing traditions, routines, or personal preferences to keep people from encountering Him. (Matthew 21:14-16; Micah 6:8)
#5 CHOOSE CHRIST-CENTERED PRIORITIES
Jesus remained focused on the Father’s mission even knowing the suffering that awaited Him. As believers, we are called to seek God’s kingdom first and align our time, relationships, resources, and decisions with His eternal purposes. (Matthew 6:33; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 1:13)
Ask God to align your priorities with His. Seek His kingdom first, faithfully obey His Word, and follow Jesus wherever He leads.
SCRIPTURE
Primary passage: Matthew 21:1-16
Supporting passages: Psalm 118:25-26; Isaiah 56:7; Jeremiah 7:11; Micah 6:8; Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 6:33; Luke 19:38; John 6:15; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 1:13
Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18928468
26.0329der Jesus Priorities in Action
I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].