The Anti-Worship Team.

As Jesus approached the road leading down from the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began to praise God joyfully with loud voices for all the mighty miracles they had seen. But some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” (Luke 19:37 and 19:39).

How interesting. The Pharisees opted out of the incredible, once-in-a lifetime worship parade. But, instead of avoiding the parade route, they chose to hang around and complain. As Pastor Sam shared, they had the time to observe, analyze, and determine what was or was not appropriate protocol.

Our pastor noted that, ironically, the Pharisees were insensitive and insulated. They really should have been the first ones to recognize the spiritual significance of the Triumphal Entry. After all, their religious sect had constant access to the Scriptures. They had read the passage which prophesied of the King’s parade, His ride on the colt signifying peace and victory. But in the face of an opportunity to ascribe worth and majesty to the King, they got close enough to Jesus to deliver Him a testimony of anti-worship: “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.”

“Answering them, Jesus said: ‘If these human beings keep quiet, then the very stones will cry out!’” (Luke 19:40)

Two-thousand-plus years later, here we are. And we have to ask ourselves the question generated by this Palm Sunday narrative: In the face of exuberant worship, are we glad participants in the corporate praise of our Victorious King? Or, are we found wishing that His disciples would be quiet?

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: Look, your King is coming to you! He is righteous and victorious, and He is able to save you; yet He is humble and lowly, riding upon a donkey- even a colt, the foal of a donkey. (Zechariah 9:9)