2 | The Servant King
Unraveled: Pulling the Threads of Holy Week
Easter is a beautiful picture of how God’s Word is woven together from start to finish. In this limited series, we’re unpacking the Easter story and how the rescue plan can be seen throughout Scripture. This redemptive tale was introduced in the Old Testament, was retold through the Gospels, and continues to unfold in our stories today.
In this week’s episode, we’re going to look at the inverted expectations of those who encountered Jesus – from the crowds in Jerusalem to Jesus’ inner circle of disciples. What did they think Jesus would do for them, and what was Jesus’ actual plan? Let’s dive in and start pulling the threads of Scripture together.
Episode Resources:
Easter at Venture
Bible Reading Plan & Devos
Message Series
Find a House Church
Venture Church Podcasts
Venture Church Website
7 Marks Assessment
Scripture
Primary Text: Matthew 21, John 13:1-17
Observation & Application
1. Read Matthew 21:1–11 together and share what words, phrases, or moments capture your attention or raise questions for you.
2. What do the crowds shouting “Hosanna!” in Matthew 21 tell us about what they expected from Jesus?
3. Read John 13:1-17 together and, like question 1, share what words, phrases, or moments capture your attention or raise questions for you.
4. Why is it significant that Jesus, knowing “that the Father had put all things under his power” (John 13:3), chose to wash His disciples’ feet?
S.O.A.P. METHOD
Use this tool to study God’s Word
SCRIPTURE
Write which passage of scripture you are reading.
OBSERVATION
What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands or instructions?
APPLICATION
How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you?
PRAYER
Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.
7 Marks Assessment
A common misconception about discipleship is that growth happens in a linear path, where each step builds on the one before. Along the path are certain steps that must be mastered before advancing and experiencing growth in other areas. But what if there is a better picture of what it looks like to follow Jesus?
Imagine the 7 Marks as spokes on a wheel. That wheel represents our spiritual journey rolling down the path of life as we follow Him. Rather than "mastering" one step before moving on to another, growth in one area of discipleship can actually help us strengthen another area. As we look at the life of Jesus and how he led the disciples, we understand that the invitation to follow Jesus is also an invitation to grow as we go. Take the 7 Marks Assessment now to discover your next steps in discipleship.
7 Marks Assessment