What Does “Hosanna” Mean?

Summary

R.C. Sproul explores the significance of the word "hosanna" and the palm branches during Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, examining its origins and symbolic meaning of victory. The sermon highlights how the crowds welcomed Jesus as a conquering king, waving palm branches and shouting "Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord." This passage reveals the people's expectations of Jesus as a triumphant monarch, though their understanding of His victory would soon be dramatically transformed. The key takeaway is that the Palm Sunday scene represents both celebration and misunderstanding of Christ's true purpose and mission.