Who is this? Matthew 21:1-11

3/31/2023

 

Union Gospel,  

Text: Matthew 21:1-11,  

V.10: When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”

Topic: Who is this?

 

Our text today depicts the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, which was a significant event leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection. As we reflect on this passage, the question posed by the crowds is particularly poignant: "Who is this?" In this moment, the people of Jerusalem were witnessing the arrival of a man who had stirred up controversy, performed miracles, and preached a message of love and redemption. They were curious about this man who had gained such a following and commanded such attention. Especially when he is confronting the Religious Leaderships: Pharisees and Sadducees. He is brining Grace to complete the Laws and Religious Leaderships took that He preaching messages aimed at destroying or replacing the Law. Thus, this climatic entry heighten the question that Jesus has been trying to clarify as the people asked in verse 10 “Who is this?”

 

Let us do something here: two volunteer comes up and ask of them to go down to the car dealership on East Lancaster and get the 1971 Red Mustang. Tell them that God need them. (demonstration of our faith)  

 

Jesus entry to Jerusalem is full of contradictions not only because people was asking about Jesus identity. But the entire situation: This the 10^th. day of the month of Nisan and on the 10^th day, the Jews people has identified the lamb that will be slaughter for the Feast of the Passover

 

Contradictions:

People said that he is the Messiah, he is the sacrificial Lamp, Teacher, Rabi, Good man, Savior of Israel, Moral person, Son of Carpenter, Healer, Miracle worker, Nazarene, Friend of the oppressed, the crowd praised him “Hosana” means save us. What they are talking about is to overthrow the Roman you become our King. Anther contradiction: he came on a mule as a Humble King (Zachariah 9). If he came to overthrow the Romans, he would have rode in on an horse.

 

On our text today, he is being identified as Son of David, Who comes in the name of the Lord, and in verse 10: who is this? But as we consider this question, "Who is this?", it's essential to recognize that it's not just a historical question. It's a question that each of us must answer for ourselves today. Who is Jesus to you and I?

 

As we reflect on the question, "Who is this?", let us remember that our answer matters. Our answer determines how we live our lives, how we treat our relationship, and how we view the world around us.

 

Sometimes we defined Jesus based on our Situation – when we are in a bad Situation, maybe Jesus does not love us. This leads us to the misunderstanding of who Jesus is. We cannot define Jesus through out situation. We need to define our situation through Jesus. When we are in a difficult situation, we must ask: Jesus how can your Name be glorified through this situation?

 

For some, He may be little more than a historical figure, a man who lived and died a long time ago. For others, He may be a source of inspiration or a moral teacher. But for those who have experienced the power of His love and Grace, He is so much more.

1.    Jesus is a savior, a redeemer, and the one whom offer Salvation.

2.    He is the one who has forgiven our sins and given us hope for eternal life.

3.    He is the one who walks beside us in our struggles and lifts us up in our times of need.

4.    He is the one who has changed our lives and given us a new purpose.

 

It is critical that we not only understand the identity of Jesus but to live it. We cannot have a personal relationship with someone that We do NOT know! We want and think that Jesus is our Savior all day long but UNTIL we become that person, Saved Person, we do not really know Who Jesus is!

 

Our definition of Jesus can only be validated NOT by who we think Jesus is but whom we are in Jesus:

 

We become NOT who we think we are but What we are! We can think all day long that we are rich but ONLY when we start being that person, we are!

 

Hence, we can claim we know Jesus, do good works, and know the scripture but ONLY when we are SAVED that we truly know Jesus.  

 

So let us embrace Him, follow Him, and share His love with those around us. Let us answer the question, "Who is this?", with conviction and faith. And let us live our lives in a way that honors His sacrifice and brings glory to His name. Are we willing to follow Jesus through this week of passion starting with the triumph entry as the King, to the Cross and to His resurrection? Who is Jesus to you today?  He is the Son of God, and our Resurrected Savior. He is our King in this life and eternal life

 

Closing Prayer:

 

Gracious and loving God, we come to you today with hearts full of gratitude and wonder at the majesty of your son, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on the scripture today, we are reminded of the questions that were asked on that day, "Who is this?"

 

Lord, we too ask this question with humility and awe, seeking to deepen our understanding of your son's identity and his purpose for our lives. Help us to see Jesus as the humble king who came to save us, riding on a donkey, not a horse, as a sign of his humility and willingness to serve.

 

We pray that you would give us the courage to proclaim Jesus as Lord in our lives, just as the crowds did on that day, shouting "Hosanna to the Son of David!" May we never tire of exalting Your name, and may we always remember that You are the one who has the power to save us and transform us.

 

We pray for those who have yet to encounter Your son, Jesus Christ. May they too ask the question, "Who is this?" and may they be drawn to seek You with all their hearts. And for those who are already followers of Jesus, may we never lose our sense of wonder and awe at Your love and mercy.

 

We offer this prayer in the name of Jesus, our Savior, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Vietnamese impact on Team Culture

Vietnamese impact on Team Culture

Vietnamese people have a unique and positive impact on team culture at work. The country has a rich history and culture that has shaped the values and behavior of its people. The Vietnamese are known for their hard work, loyalty, and strong sense of community, all of which contribute to a positive team culture. In this essay, we will discuss how Vietnamese people impact team culture at work.

One of the most significant ways that Vietnamese people impact team culture is through their work ethic. Vietnamese people are known for their dedication and commitment to their jobs, and they take pride in delivering high-quality work. They have a strong sense of responsibility and take ownership of their tasks, which contributes to a culture of accountability in the workplace. This work ethic is contagious and can inspire others to work harder and be more productive, which can lead to a positive team culture.

Another way that Vietnamese people impact team culture is through their emphasis on teamwork and collaboration. Vietnamese culture places a high value on community and collective achievement, and this is reflected in the workplace. Vietnamese people are often willing to lend a helping hand to their colleagues and work together to achieve shared goals. They understand that success is not only about individual achievement but also about the success of the team as a whole. This collaborative mindset fosters a sense of unity and cooperation, which is essential for building a strong team culture.

Vietnamese people also bring a strong sense of respect and humility to the workplace, which contributes to a positive team culture. They are respectful of authority and value the opinions of their colleagues. They are also humble and do not seek individual recognition for their achievements. Instead, they focus on contributing to the success of the team as a whole. This attitude creates a positive and supportive environment in which team members feel valued and appreciated.

Finally, Vietnamese people bring a sense of warmth and hospitality to the workplace. They are often friendly and welcoming to their colleagues, which can help to create a positive and inclusive team culture. They understand the importance of building relationships and creating a sense of community, which can lead to increased teamwork and collaboration.

In conclusion, Vietnamese people have a significant impact on team culture at work. Their strong work ethic, emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, sense of respect and humility, and warmth and hospitality contribute to a positive and productive workplace environment. Employers who understand and appreciate these values can build strong, cohesive teams that are capable of achieving great things together.

Laotians impact on Team Culture

Laotians impact on Team Culture

Laotian people have a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped by their history, geography, and religious beliefs. This unique background has a significant impact on team culture in the workplace, including communication styles, leadership styles, and teamwork. In this essay, we will explore how Laotian people influence team culture in the workplace.

Communication styles are an essential aspect of team culture, and Laotian people have a communication style that is different from that of other cultures. In Laotian culture, indirect communication is preferred, and it is considered impolite to say no directly. Instead, Laotians use nonverbal cues and hints to communicate their thoughts and feelings. This communication style can create challenges for team members who are not familiar with this cultural norm. However, by understanding and respecting this communication style, team members can better work together and communicate effectively.

Laotian people also have a unique leadership style that emphasizes collaboration and consensus-building. In Laotian culture, leaders are expected to lead by example, and they are expected to work collaboratively with team members to achieve goals. This leadership style can foster a team culture that values cooperation and teamwork. By involving all team members in decision-making and encouraging open communication, Laotian leaders can create a positive and productive team culture.

Teamwork is another crucial aspect of team culture, and Laotian people value working together as a team to achieve common goals. Laotians have a strong sense of community and believe that everyone has a role to play in the success of the team. This belief can foster a team culture that emphasizes collaboration and mutual support. By encouraging teamwork and promoting a sense of belonging, Laotian team members can create a positive and supportive work environment.

In conclusion, Laotian people have a significant impact on team culture in the workplace. Their unique communication style, leadership style, and teamwork values can influence how team members work together and interact with each other. By understanding and respecting Laotian culture, team members can create a positive and productive team culture that values collaboration and mutual support. This cultural diversity can benefit the workplace by promoting innovation, creativity, and a more inclusive work environment.

Middle Easterners impact on Team Culture

Middle Easterners impact on Team Culture

Middle Eastern culture is deeply rooted in teamwork and collective effort, and this is reflected in the way Middle Easterners impact team culture at work. Whether it is through their communication style, their approach to conflict resolution, or their emphasis on hospitality and building relationships, Middle Easterners bring unique perspectives and values that can enrich team dynamics and foster a more collaborative and inclusive work environment.

One of the key ways in which Middle Easterners impact team culture is through their communication style. In many Middle Eastern cultures, direct confrontation and criticism are considered impolite, and instead, people often use indirect and nuanced language to convey their thoughts and feelings. This can be a valuable trait in a team environment, as it allows for more nuanced and thoughtful conversations that take into account everyone's perspectives and feelings. Additionally, Middle Easterners are often highly skilled in the art of active listening, which involves not only hearing what someone is saying but also paying attention to their nonverbal cues and responding with empathy and understanding. This can help create a more inclusive and supportive team culture where everyone feels heard and valued.

Another way that Middle Easterners impact team culture is through their approach to conflict resolution. In many Middle Eastern cultures, conflict is seen as a natural part of life and is not necessarily viewed as a negative thing. Instead, conflict is often seen as an opportunity to build stronger relationships and to work through challenges together. Middle Easterners often employ a collaborative approach to conflict resolution, where everyone's perspective is taken into account and solutions are reached through a consensus-building process. This can be a valuable approach in a team environment, where conflict is inevitable but can be resolved in a way that strengthens relationships and fosters greater trust and cooperation.

Hospitality and building relationships are also highly valued in Middle Eastern culture, and these values can have a significant impact on team culture at work. Middle Easterners are often warm and welcoming, and they place a high value on building strong relationships with others. This can create a more inclusive and supportive team environment, where everyone feels like they belong and are part of a larger community. Additionally, Middle Easterners often go out of their way to take care of others, whether it's by offering food, drinks, or other forms of hospitality. This can help create a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, as everyone is working together towards a common goal.

Finally, Middle Easterners often bring a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence to the workplace. This can be a valuable asset in a team environment, where everyone is working towards a shared goal and needs to be able to rely on each other to get the job done. Middle Easterners often take pride in their work and are highly motivated to succeed, which can help create a culture of high performance and accountability within the team.

In conclusion, Middle Easterners bring a unique set of perspectives and values to the workplace, which can have a significant impact on team culture. Through their communication style, approach to conflict resolution, emphasis on hospitality and building relationships, and commitment to excellence, Middle Easterners can help create a more collaborative and inclusive work environment, where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported. By leveraging these strengths and building on the shared values of teamwork and cooperation, Middle Easterners can help create high-performing teams that achieve great things together.

Japanese impact on Team Culture

Japanese impact on Team Culture

Japan is known for its unique culture that values teamwork and collaboration, which has a significant impact on the team culture at work. The Japanese have a strong sense of loyalty, respect, and harmony that extends to the workplace, resulting in a cohesive and efficient work environment. In this essay, I will discuss how the Japanese people impact team culture at work and the benefits of this approach.

One of the key aspects of Japanese culture that influences team culture is the concept of "wa," which means harmony or unity. This is reflected in the way that Japanese teams work together, with a focus on cooperation and communication to achieve common goals. Rather than emphasizing individual achievement, the Japanese place great importance on the success of the team as a whole, which leads to a strong sense of collective responsibility.

Another aspect of Japanese culture that impacts team culture is the emphasis on mutual respect and politeness. In Japanese workplaces, there are strict rules around hierarchy and seniority, and it is customary to show respect to those who are older or hold a higher position. This creates a culture of mutual respect, where everyone's opinions and contributions are valued, regardless of their position or rank.

Japanese teams also have a strong work ethic, with a focus on hard work and perseverance. This is reflected in the way that Japanese employees approach their work, with a commitment to continuous improvement and a willingness to put in extra effort to achieve their goals. This work ethic extends to the team as a whole, with a focus on supporting each other to achieve success.

Another important aspect of Japanese team culture is the emphasis on consensus-building and decision-making. Rather than relying on a top-down approach to decision-making, Japanese teams aim to reach consensus through discussion and collaboration. This approach ensures that everyone's opinions are heard and considered, which leads to better decision-making and a more cohesive team.

Overall, the Japanese approach to team culture has many benefits for workplaces. By focusing on harmony, mutual respect, hard work, and consensus-building, Japanese teams create a cohesive and efficient work environment that fosters collaboration and communication. This approach leads to better teamwork, increased productivity, and a stronger sense of collective responsibility, which ultimately benefits both the team and the organization as a whole.

In conclusion, the Japanese people have a significant impact on team culture at work, with their emphasis on harmony, mutual respect, hard work, and consensus-building creating a cohesive and efficient work environment. By adopting these values and practices, organizations can create a strong team culture that fosters collaboration, communication, and mutual support, ultimately leading to greater success and achievement.

Indian's impact on Team Culture

Indian's impact on Team Culture

India is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diversity. Its people are known for their warmth, hospitality, and teamwork. When it comes to the workplace, Indian people bring a unique set of skills and qualities that can greatly impact team culture. In this essay, we will explore some of the ways in which Indian people influence team culture at work.

One of the most significant ways in which Indian people impact team culture is through their emphasis on collaboration and cooperation. In India, teamwork is highly valued and is often seen as an essential component of success. This is reflected in the Indian workplace, where teamwork and collaboration are actively encouraged. Indian employees are known for their willingness to work together to achieve a common goal, which can create a supportive and productive team culture.

Another way in which Indian people impact team culture is through their focus on relationship-building. Indians place a high value on building strong relationships, both inside and outside of the workplace. In the context of the workplace, this means that Indian employees prioritize building strong relationships with their colleagues. This can lead to a more supportive and inclusive team culture, where team members feel valued and respected.

Indian people also bring a strong work ethic to the workplace. In India, hard work and perseverance are highly valued and are seen as essential components of success. This work ethic can inspire and motivate team members, creating a positive and productive team culture. Indian employees are often known for their willingness to work long hours and their dedication to their work, which can have a significant impact on the overall performance of the team.

Indian people also bring a unique perspective to the workplace. India is a country with a diverse range of religions, cultures, and languages, and this diversity is reflected in the Indian workforce. Indian employees often have a deep understanding of different cultures and perspectives, which can be invaluable in a global workplace. This diversity can also lead to more creative and innovative problem-solving, as team members bring different ideas and approaches to the table.

Finally, Indian people are known for their adaptability and flexibility. India is a country that has undergone significant economic and social changes in recent years, and its people have had to adapt to these changes. This adaptability can be seen in the Indian workplace, where employees are often willing to adapt to changing circumstances and to take on new challenges. This flexibility can create a dynamic and innovative team culture, where team members are willing to take risks and explore new ideas.

In conclusion, Indian people have a significant impact on team culture at work. Through their focus on collaboration, relationship-building, work ethic, unique perspective, and adaptability, Indian employees can create a supportive, productive, and dynamic team culture. This can lead to greater success and innovation in the workplace, as well as a more positive and fulfilling work environment for all team members.

Chinese impact on Team Culture

Chinese impact on Team Culture

China is one of the most populous countries in the world, and Chinese people have a strong presence in various industries worldwide. Their work culture and ethics have been studied extensively and have been found to be unique in many ways. Chinese people have a significant impact on team culture at work, and this essay will explore some of the ways this is seen.

One of the most noticeable aspects of Chinese work culture is their focus on collectivism. Chinese people have a strong sense of community and believe that teamwork is crucial to success. This is reflected in the way they approach work, where they prioritize collaboration and cooperation over individual achievement. As a result, they tend to be excellent team players who are willing to work together to achieve a common goal.

Another characteristic of Chinese team culture is their emphasis on hierarchy and respect for authority. In Chinese culture, seniority is highly valued, and individuals are expected to defer to those who are higher up in the hierarchy. This is particularly evident in the workplace, where employees are expected to show deference to their superiors. As a result, Chinese employees tend to be more disciplined and respectful of authority than their Western counterparts.

The Chinese approach to conflict resolution is also unique. Rather than confronting issues directly, Chinese people tend to use indirect communication and avoid conflict wherever possible. This can be challenging for Westerners who are used to more direct communication styles. However, it is important to understand that the Chinese approach is rooted in their culture, where the concept of "face" is crucial. Face refers to a person's reputation and social standing, and preserving it is of utmost importance. As a result, Chinese people tend to avoid behaviors that could damage their face, including confrontation.

Finally, the Chinese work culture places a high value on hard work and dedication. Chinese people tend to work long hours and are willing to make sacrifices to achieve success. This work ethic is particularly evident in the younger generation, who are highly competitive and driven to succeed. As a result, Chinese employees tend to be highly motivated and focused on achieving their goals.

In conclusion, Chinese people have a significant impact on team culture at work. Their focus on collectivism, respect for authority, indirect communication style, and strong work ethic all contribute to a unique work culture that can be challenging for Westerners to understand. However, by recognizing and respecting these cultural differences, organizations can create a more inclusive and productive workplace where Chinese and Western employees can work together effectively.

Spanish impact on Team Culture

Spanish impact on Team Culture

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world and is the official language of over 20 countries, including Spain, Mexico, and many countries in Central and South America. As a result, the Spanish language has a significant impact on team culture in workplaces where it is spoken.

One way that Spanish impacts team culture at work is by creating a sense of community and inclusion among Spanish-speaking team members. When a group of people share a common language, it can help to build a sense of camaraderie and belonging. Spanish-speaking team members may feel more comfortable and confident expressing themselves in their native language, which can lead to better communication and collaboration among team members.

Another way that Spanish impacts team culture at work is by providing opportunities for language learning and cultural exchange. In workplaces where Spanish is spoken, team members who do not speak the language may have the opportunity to learn it, either through formal language classes or through informal conversations with their Spanish-speaking colleagues. This can help to break down barriers and foster greater understanding and respect between team members from different cultural backgrounds.

Spanish can also impact team culture at work by influencing the way that team members communicate and interact with each other. Spanish is known for its warmth, expressiveness, and emotional intensity, which can lead to more passionate and lively discussions among team members. Spanish-speaking team members may also bring different cultural values and perspectives to the workplace, which can help to broaden the team's outlook and enhance creativity and innovation.

At the same time, Spanish can also present challenges for teams that are not accustomed to working in a bilingual environment. Communication breakdowns and misunderstandings can occur if team members are not able to effectively communicate with each other in both languages. Additionally, non-Spanish-speaking team members may feel excluded or left out if they are unable to participate fully in conversations or meetings conducted in Spanish.

To address these challenges, it is important for teams to establish clear guidelines and protocols for bilingual communication. This may include providing language training for non-Spanish-speaking team members, setting expectations for when it is appropriate to use each language, and establishing clear procedures for translating important documents or communications.

In conclusion, Spanish has a significant impact on team culture in workplaces where it is spoken. By fostering a sense of community and inclusion, providing opportunities for language learning and cultural exchange, and influencing the way that team members communicate and interact with each other, Spanish can enhance collaboration, creativity, and innovation in the workplace. However, it is important for teams to be aware of the challenges that bilingual communication can present and to establish clear protocols for effective communication and collaboration.

Pacific Islanders impact on Team Culture

Pacific Islanders impact on Team Culture

The Pacific Islanders are a diverse group of people hailing from various nations and regions across the Pacific Ocean. Their unique cultural backgrounds and perspectives bring a wealth of knowledge and experience that can greatly impact team culture in the workplace. In this essay, we will explore how Pacific Islanders impact team culture at work.

Firstly, Pacific Islanders are known for their strong community values and collective decision-making processes. This means that they place a high emphasis on collaboration and teamwork, which can greatly influence team dynamics in the workplace. Pacific Islanders are often natural team players and work well in group settings, making them a valuable asset to any team.

Secondly, Pacific Islanders have a deep respect for their cultural heritage, which includes a strong sense of spirituality and connection to the land. This means that they bring a unique perspective to the workplace, one that values harmony and balance. This perspective can help to create a positive and inclusive team culture, where every member is valued and respected.

Thirdly, Pacific Islanders are known for their hospitality and warmth, which can create a welcoming and supportive workplace environment. They often place a high value on building strong relationships with colleagues, which can lead to a positive work culture built on trust and respect. This can help to foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among team members, which can be a powerful motivator for individuals to perform at their best.

Fourthly, Pacific Islanders have a rich tradition of storytelling, which can greatly impact team culture. Storytelling is a powerful tool for building connections and conveying important messages. In the workplace, storytelling can be used to share experiences, build rapport, and inspire team members to work towards a common goal. Pacific Islanders can bring their storytelling skills to the workplace, creating a vibrant and engaging team culture that is grounded in the collective wisdom of the group.

Finally, Pacific Islanders have a strong work ethic and a deep sense of pride in their work. This can greatly impact team culture, creating a sense of motivation and commitment to achieving team goals. Pacific Islanders often take a holistic approach to their work, considering the impact that their work has on their community and the environment. This can help to create a sense of purpose and meaning in the workplace, which can be a powerful motivator for individuals to work together towards a shared vision.

In conclusion, Pacific Islanders have a unique perspective that can greatly impact team culture in the workplace. Their strong community values, deep respect for their cultural heritage, hospitality and warmth, storytelling skills, and strong work ethic can create a positive and inclusive work culture that values collaboration, teamwork, and a sense of purpose. As such, Pacific Islanders are a valuable asset to any team, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help to create a more vibrant and engaged workplace environment.

African Americans impact on Team Culture

African Americans impact on Team Culture

African Americans have had a profound impact on team culture at work, as they have brought unique perspectives and experiences to the workplace. Through their contributions, they have helped shape the culture of collaboration and inclusivity that is becoming increasingly important in modern work environments.

One of the most significant ways that African Americans have impacted team culture is through their emphasis on diversity and inclusion. As a historically marginalized group in American society, African Americans have often been excluded from opportunities and experiences that other groups take for granted. This has led them to be particularly attuned to issues of discrimination and inequality, and they have played a leading role in pushing for greater diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

African Americans have also brought a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence to the workplace. Despite facing significant challenges and obstacles, many African Americans have succeeded in their careers through hard work, determination, and perseverance. This has helped to establish a culture of excellence and dedication that is essential to success in today's fast-paced and competitive business world.

Another important contribution that African Americans have made to team culture is their emphasis on communication and collaboration. As a group that has had to work hard to overcome social and economic barriers, African Americans have learned the value of working together and communicating effectively to achieve shared goals. This has helped to create a culture of teamwork and collaboration that is essential to success in any modern workplace.

Finally, African Americans have helped to establish a culture of innovation and creativity in the workplace. By bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the table, they have helped to challenge established ways of thinking and to bring fresh ideas and approaches to complex problems. This has helped to establish a culture of innovation and creativity that is essential to success in today's rapidly changing business environment.

In conclusion, African Americans have had a profound impact on team culture at work. Through their contributions, they have helped to establish a culture of diversity, inclusion, excellence, teamwork, collaboration, and innovation that is essential to success in today's fast-paced and competitive business world. As we continue to strive for greater diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, we must recognize and celebrate the contributions that African Americans have made to this important aspect of modern work culture.