Palm Sunday: The Sons Are Free

Matthew 17:22-27, 21:1-11

Introduction: Hosanna to the King! (Matt. 21:1-11 / Mark 11:1-11)

I. The King Foretells His Death (Matt. 17:22-23)

II. The Temple Tax: Sons vs. Strangers (Matt. 17:24-27) 

III. Royalty: Born Again as Sons and Daughters

IV. Miraculous Provision: The Coin in the Fish

V. The Cross and Freedom: Palm Sunday’s Purpose

 Small Group Discussion Questions

1. The sermon describes Palm Sunday as a bittersweet moment of joy (Hosanna!) and impending sacrifice (the cross). Can you share a time in your life when you experienced both joy and grief side by side? How does Jesus’ example in Matthew 17:22-23 help you navigate those tensions?

    

2. The disciples were distressed by Jesus’ prediction of His death (Matt. 17:23) and didn’t grasp the promise of resurrection. Have you ever focused on a hardship and missed God’s bigger plan for you? How can we train ourselves to look for His promises in tough times?

    

3. Jesus teaches Peter that “the sons are free” from the temple tax (Matt. 17:25-26), pointing to our identity as God’s children. What does it mean to you personally to be a son or daughter of God rather than a stranger? How does this identity change the way you approach life’s challenges or guilt?

    

4. Jesus paid the temple tax to avoid causing offense (Matt. 17:27; cf. 1 Cor. 8:13). How can we balance living in our Christian freedom with being sensitive to others’ consciences? Share an example of a situation where you had to make a choice to avoid causing unnecessary offense.

    

5. The coin in the fish’s mouth (Matt. 17:27) shows Jesus’ power and provision, even for small needs. Can you share a story of a time God provided for you in an unexpected way? How does this miracle encourage you to trust Him with your current needs—spiritual, physical, or emotional?