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PORTICO Community Church

A Donkey Instead of a Horse

·39 min·3 clips
The Pharisees, who knew scripture best, missed Jesus because they weren't looking for a peaceful Messiah.
The episode begins with Pastor Rick welcoming the congregation and reviewing recent studies on Job and Proverbs, with plans to tackle Ecclesiastes later. He announces a short break before starting a new series on the 'Upside Down Kingdom', using artwork to contrast worldly kingdoms with Jesus' kingdom. The sermon's title, 'A Donkey Instead of a Horse', is introduced, highlighting Jesus' peaceful entry into Jerusalem. Rick shares social media responses about protecting personal peace, then transitions to the religious context of Jesus' time, focusing on the Pharisees. He argues that the Pharisees, who were dedicated to scripture, missed Jesus because they anticipated aggression, not peace. The host delves into Matthew 21, explaining the symbolism of a donkey versus a horse in ancient coronations, referencing Solomon's donkey ride in 1 Kings. He emphasizes that Jesus purposefully announced his kingdom with peace, as prophesied in Zechariah. Rick contrasts the Pharisees' forceful enforcement of laws with Jesus' humble fulfillment, noting that Israel was meant to be a model community of peace but failed. He applies this to modern contexts, warning against using aggression to proclaim the gospel. The sermon describes the Palm Sunday scene, where Jesus' donkey ride caused an uproar among religious leaders. Rick shifts to practical application, stating that true gospel proclamation happens in everyday actions like forgiveness and kindness, not just in church gatherings. He closes with a prayer and an invitation for listeners to commit to following Jesus, emphasizing living a life that embodies God's shalom rule.

As heard by us

A donkey frames the gospel as God's kingdom of peace, already present and publicly declared.

Rick builds the episode around a quiet but loaded image: Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey, announcing peace through the manner of his arrival.

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Why you'd press play

You get a donkey, a kingdom already here, and a quieter rethink of how sharing good news can look.

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