Triumph in Christ | Javon Ruff

Sunday, April 13

Key Scriptures

John 12:12-15; 2 Corinthians 2:14-16; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 8:37; Zechariah 9:9; Psalm 119:89; 1 Timothy 1:18; Hosea 4:6; Leviticus 23:40; John 19:15; Job 1:20-22; Revelation 7:9; Psalm 92:12-14; Colossians 2:6-7; Romans 8:28; 1 Corinthians 15:57; Colossians 2:13; Daniel 3:27

Introduction

Welcome to our group discussion on "Triumph in Christ" by Pastor Javon Ruff. Today, we're discussing Passion Week and how it's because of Christ and His triumphal entry that we can walk in triumph due to the price He paid.

As Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a humble donkey, the crowds shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13). This wasn’t just a parade—it was a declaration of triumph. Yet, His victory didn’t look like the world expected. It wasn’t about military might or political dominance; it was about redemption, sacrifice, and eternal purpose.

In 2 Corinthians 2:14-16, Paul describes our lives as part of Christ’s triumphal procession—a victory parade where we, as believers, spread the aroma of Christ everywhere we go.

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 15 For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16 To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task?” 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (NIV)

This imagery invites us to see ourselves not as victims of circumstance, but as victors walking in the power of Christ’s finished work.

In a Roman triumph, a victorious general paraded captives and war spoils through Rome’s streets, met with citizens’ cheers and incense burned for the Roman gods en route to Jupiter’s temple. To Romans, the scent signaled victory; to captives, it meant enslavement or death. Similarly, Christ’s ultimate victory over evil is assured—unstoppable by any force, secured on the cross, and His triumphal march continues.

How does the imagery of Christ’s triumphal entry on a donkey challenge our worldly expectations of victory, and what does it teach us about living triumphantly today?

In 2 Corinthians 2:14-16, Paul says we spread the "aroma of Christ" as part of His victory parade. What are practical ways we can reflect this aroma in our daily interactions?

For believers, triumph in Christ is not just a destination, it’s our daily identity. When we surrender to Jesus, everything changes (2 Corinthians 5:17). We are not just saved—we are transformed, empowered to live with purpose, peace, and spiritual authority.

Exploring Palm Sunday’s Key Truths

Jesus’ triumphal entry and His life carry profound meaning for us as believers. Let’s unpack Pastor Javon’s insights on prophecy, paradox, and the parallel, while reflecting on the person of Jesus.

1. Prophecy

Context

In Old Testament times, God called prophets to relay His word and warnings to His people. They served as divine messengers, delivering God’s will, judgment, and hope. Acting as judges and reformers, they called for repentance and warned of consequences for disobedience. As intercessors, they pleaded for forgiveness and restoration. As messengers of hope, they proclaimed promises of the coming Messiah.

Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion!

“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” Zechariah 9:9 (NIV)

Jesus riding into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-11)—was predicted here more than 500 years before it happened. This prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus came to earth, and the prophecies of his second coming are just as certain to come true.

The Enduring Word

The Holy Scriptures that contain the prophet's teachings, experiences and testimonies are available for us today and will be available until the end of time.

The Bible is the source of authority in determining right from wrong, truth from lies. It provides us with the words of and the teachings of Jesus Christ, the only way to God. God’s word does not and will not change, all that is written will come to pass or it has already come to pass.

Jesus showed that knowing Scripture is vital for living it out when He rebuked the devil with God’s word in Matthew 4, quoting Deuteronomy:

“But he answered, ‘It is written: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

“Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Matthew 4:7 (NIV)

“Jesus said to him, ‘Away from me, Satan! For it is written: “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”’” Matthew 4:10 (NIV)

Jesus wielded God’s Word to defeat temptation—can’t we do the same? How can you claim the Bible’s promises if you’re unaware of them? How can you confront evil forces without the power of Scripture?

Discussion Questions

How does the fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9 in Jesus’ triumphal entry (Matthew 21:1-11) strengthen your trust in the certainty of biblical prophecies, including those about His second coming?

In Matthew 4:4-10, Jesus uses Scripture to resist temptation. What are some practical ways we can study and apply God’s word to overcome challenges in our daily lives?

The prophets delivered messages of judgment, repentance, and hope. How can we balance sharing truth and hope when discussing God’s word with others today?

Activity: As a group, choose a relevant scripture to memorize over the next week. Then, have each member share what the scripture means to them.

2. Paradox

“On the first day you are to take branches from luxuriant trees—from palms, willows and other leafy trees—and rejoice before the Lord your God for seven days.”  — Leviticus 23:40 (NIV) 

“But they shouted, ‘Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!’ ‘Shall I crucify your king?’ Pilate asked. ‘We have no king but Caesar,’ the chief priests answered.”  — John 19:15 (NIV) 

Passion week was a day full of emotion—a strange mix of joy and heartbreak. One moment, people are laying palm branches down like a red carpet, celebrating Jesus as the long-awaited King. But just days later, their shouts of “Hosanna!” turn into “Crucify Him!” Why? Because He didn’t come the way they wanted. They expected a powerful, political leader (reference the Roman triumph section in the Introduction)—but Jesus came in humility, riding a donkey, aiming for hearts, not thrones. 

That’s the paradox: the same people who praised Him turned on Him when He didn’t meet their expectations. 

Haven't we all been there?—expecting God to show up one way, only to feel disappointed when He doesn't. Palm Sunday reminds us that Jesus didn’t come to give us temporary victories—He came to give us eternal freedom. His victory didn’t look like a crown of gold, but a crown of thorns... and it changed everything. 

So even when life doesn’t go the way we hoped, can we still lay down our “palms”? Can we still praise? That’s where real freedom begins—in trusting that Jesus knows what He’s doing, even when we don’t understand it.    

What are some “palms” (hopes, dreams, expectations) you’ve laid down before Jesus? Are there any you’re still holding onto that you need to surrender?

Pastor Javon discussed how many times our desire is to wave palms of praise but all we receive is thorns. How can we learn to celebrate His victory even when life feels hard?

Have you ever had a moment where you expected God to show up in a certain way—and He didn’t? What did that experience teach you about Him? About yourself?

3. The Parallel

Believers are often likened to palm trees in Scripture, which symbolize resilience, spiritual depth, and fruitfulness. Psalm 92:12 declares:

“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon” (NIV)

Palm trees are known for their deep roots, allowing them to thrive even in harsh conditions—much like believers who remain steadfast in faith despite life’s challenges. Colossians 2:6–7 reinforces this:

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6–7 (NIV)

A strong foundation in God’s Word, prayer, and biblical teaching fosters this stability.

The palm tree’s resilience and unity mirror the strength and togetherness found in a steadfast Christian community.

Another aspect Pastor Javon pointed out was that every part of the date palm was useful in biblical times, reflecting how God can use all aspects of life for good (Romans 8:28).

Just as a baker combines various ingredients to create a cake, God orchestrates all elements of life to produce spiritual fruit. Even the branches of the palm tree were used to praise—demonstrating that everything we have can be offered in worship to Him.

Colossians 2:6–7 speaks of being “rooted and built up in Christ.” What practical habits help you stay rooted in God’s Word and prayer?

In what ways has a Christian community supported you to remain resilient, like a palm tree, during difficult times?

How have you seen God use every part of your life—good or challenging—for His purpose, as described in Romans 8:28?

4. Person

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” —1 Corinthians 15:57 (NIV)

Pastor Javon reminds us that victory is not just a position—it’s a person, Jesus Christ. When we are born again, Jesus dwells in us, bringing triumph, overcoming power, and eternal life. He conquered spiritual death by forgiving our sins, physical death by His resurrection, and eternal death by securing our place with God.

Because of Jesus, death is not the end for believers—it’s a comma, not a period, promising heaven. In Revelation, Jesus declares, “I am the one who was dead and is alive again. I hold the keys!” He unlocks every prison—addiction, fear, depression—setting us free to live abundantly. When we call on His name, chains break, and dead dreams come alive.

Discussion Questions:

How does knowing that victory is found in the person of Jesus change the way you face challenges or fears?

Why is it important to have a “healthy theology of death” as believers, and how does 1 Corinthians 15:57 encourage us in this?

Conclusion: Walking in Victory, Living with Purpose

As we conclude today's discussion... In Christ, we are not just survivors—we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). The triumphal entry of Jesus was a signal to the world that true victory comes through surrender, that the cross was not defeat but the path to ultimate triumph. Today, we live in the wake of that victory, walking not in fear or failure but in faith and freedom.

You are not defined by your past, your pain, or your problems. You are a redeemed saint, a living testimony of God’s power to turn brokenness into beauty and defeat into destiny. Triumph in Christ means you fight from victory, not for it. His power is your power. His peace is your peace. And through Him, you walk each day not as a victim, but as a victor with purpose.

What practical step can you take this week to shift from a “victim mindset” to a “victor mindset” in Christ?

Prayer

Pastor Javon says Jesus holds the keys to any prison. What “prison” in your life can you invite Jesus to unlock, and how can you trust Him for freedom? Claim victory.

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