Paradise Lost
Sermon Notes
Today, we kick off our Easter series, Back to the Garden, a new series that begins in Eden and leads us toward the cross and the empty tomb. In Genesis, we see the world as it was meant to be—marked by peace, purpose, and an unbroken relationship with God. But the moment sin entered the story, everything fractured. We feel that same brokenness today—in our relationships, in our work, in our world.
On Palm Sunday, we remember that Jesus didn’t come just to improve our lives—He came to restore what was lost. His journey into Jerusalem marked the beginning of restoration. This week, we’ll see how the ache we carry is actually a longing to return to the Garden—a longing that only Jesus can fulfill.
Join us as we look back at what we were made for, confront the reality of where we are, and look forward with hope to what Jesus came to restore.
To help you reflect and apply this truth, we've provided a weekly reading plan with discussion questions. You can find it on the CityBridge App to follow along. Worship Set List →
Key Points
Our World – The Way Things Are
His Garden – The Way Things Were Meant to Be
The Restoration – The King Has Come
Discussion Questions
Where in your life do you most clearly feel the loss of Eden—whether it’s peace, purpose, or relationships? How do you see that loss affecting your daily mindset or choices?
What does it look like for you to actively pursue intimacy with God today? What habits or practices help you feel connected to Him?
Jesus entered Jerusalem knowing He was walking toward suffering—how does His courage shape the way you face hardship or sacrifice?
In what ways have you experienced Jesus restoring something that was broken in your life—whether spiritually, relationally, or in your work?
How can our group better reflect “Garden life” by pursuing peace, restoring relationships, and living with God-given purpose together?
