Prelude
Is God’s kingdom meant to just rule in our hearts or is there more to it? Purpose: What is the truth of Jesus’ reign? Plan: Let’s see what Jesus had to say about His kingdom in John 18:33-37.
King of the Jews (vs 33)
Then Pilate entered the Praetorium again, called Jesus, and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” (John 18:33 NKJV)
Pilate governed the Roman province of Judea from 26-36 AD. The Roman province of Judea existed from 6-135 AD. Its capital was Caesarea on the northwest coast and not Jerusalem. Pontius Pilate was the 5th Roman Prefect of Judea. Archaeology and history record him as being an equestrian (a knight). Nathanael (John 1:49) and a large crowd had called Jesus king (John 12:13). The military governor of Judea saw potential political threats to Rome.
What Have You Done (vs 34-35)
Jesus answered him, “Are you speaking for yourself about this, or did others tell you this concerning Me?” Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered You to me. What have You done?” (John 18:34-35 NKJV)
The selfish politics of this world often destroys. Jesus gave his life for others. Pilate caused terror. Jesus brought peace. Pilate encouraged violence. Jesus encouraged love. Pilate governed by the fickle will of Caesar. Jesus rules by the unchanging will of God. Are we blinded by worldly political partisanship? Do we see the difference in Jesus’ reign of love?
Not from Here (vs 36)
Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.” (John 18:36 NKJV)
The politics of this world rarely aligns with the values of heaven. The Greek says, Jesus’ kingdom is not “of” or “from” the world. What did Jesus mean? Coming from heaven, Jesus’ kingdom has different values and will overrule all human authority at His return.
The Truth (vs 37)
Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?” Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.” (John 18:37 NKJV)
Truth is elusive. History is often tainted by lies. Do we want the truth or not? Do we recognize that what Jesus says is true? Do we believe the Bible, or do we believe what the world says? Jesus’ rule is one of truth. He spins no political lies.
Postlude
Jesus’ government is unlike any earthly government. It comes from heaven. He is a king that solves what no human government in the entirety of human history has been able to solve, salvation from all our problems. We come under the authority of His kingdom the moment we submit to His rule in our lives.
New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Readings
2 Samuel 23:1-7; Psalm 132:1-12; Revelation 1:5-8
