The triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem was indeed the peak of a high expectation on the part of the Jews as Jesus Christ presented Himself as King (Zechariah 9:9). To the expectant Jews, it was: "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Psalm 118:23,24). Hence the rapturous shout, "Hosanna! Hosanna!" However, there was a great disappointment when Jesus Christ did not meet their expectation. What was this expectation?
HOSANNA IN CONTEXT
Hosanna is a Hebrew expression. It is an exclamation of praise that literally means "save" or "save now"(Psalm 118:25).
This exclamatory praise-prayer was quoted from Psalm 118:25, 26. The psalm talks of confidence in a God who is able to deliver from all enemies.
The Jews had for long awaited a leader who had been promised centuries before by prophets (Isaiah 9:7; Jeremiah 23:5). They believed that this leader, the Messiah (the anointed one) would rescue them from their Roman oppressors and establish a new kingdom (Acts 1:6). As their king, He would rule the world with justice.
"Son of David" was a messianic language. "Hosanna to the Son of David" (Matthew 21:15b) can be paraphrased as, "Save now, Son of David, the King."
On that day, the Jews in all probability expected Jesus Christ (as a king of the Jews) to declare liberty to the Jews from the oppressive Roman overlords.
HOSANNA AND THE JEW'S PUBLIC REJECTION OF CHRIST (John 19:12-16; 19-21).
Briefly discuss the intensity of Christ's rejection from the above scripture passages.
Note: Jesus Christ's death on the cross is no doubt a demonstration of God's love and sovereignty. However Jesus Christ's refusal to declare political freedom for the Jews was a disappointment which the power of darkness manipulated to rouse an intense hatred and public rejection of Jesus by the Jews.
What do you understand by this common saying: "Today, 'Hosanna;' tomorrow, 'Crucify him'"?
HOSANNA AND YOU
As Christians, we make great acclamations for Christ, like "Jesus is Lord," "the Lord is good all the time", etc. We also have desires and great expectations for our lives, families, society and the church for which we often cry out, "Save now," "Save us," " Please Lord, give success" ...But how should we handle failed expectations; or expectations not met immediately?
Always remember that the Lord is faithful (1 Corinthians 1:9)
Exercise patience (Hebrews 6:12).
Don't lose heart, but have faith in God (Mark 11:22).
Rejoice in the Lord.....(Habakkuk 3:17,18).
Recognize God's sovereignty and submit to it (Daniel 4:35)
