KINGSHIP OF JESUS
From his birth to his ascension, Jesus was recognized and proclaimed as the King of Israel. Here are some key events that highlight his kingship:
The Magi’s Inquiry
At Jesus’ birth, the Magi arrived in Jerusalem seeking “the newborn king of the Jews” after seeing his star (Mt 2:2). This inquiry startled Herod and all of Jerusalem, as it suggested the birth of a significant figure, a king whose influence was recognized by foreign dignitaries.
Nathanael’s Confession
When Nathanael first met Jesus, he professed his faith, saying, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel” (Jn 1:49). Nathanael’s declaration encapsulated the messianic expectation that many Jews held, anticipating a king from the line of David who would restore Israel.
The Feeding of the Five Thousand
After miraculously feeding five thousand men with five barley loaves and two fish, the people declared, “‘This is truly the Prophet, the one who is to come into the world.’ Since Jesus knew they were going to come and carry him off to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain alone” (Jn 6:14-15). The crowd’s reaction showed their desire for a king who could meet their physical needs and lead them.
Salome’s Request
Zebedee’s wife, Salome, approached Jesus with a bold request for her sons: “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom” (Mt 20:21). This request implied a belief that Jesus was about to establish a tangible kingdom, one where positions of power and honor could be assigned.
Triumphal Entry
As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the people welcomed Him with palm branches, crying out: “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, [even] the king of Israel” (Jn 12:13; Lk 19:38). This was a clear acknowledgment of Jesus as the anticipated king, fulfilling Zechariah’s prophecy of a humble king arriving on a donkey.
Mockery and Crucifixion
Jesus’ kingship was mocked by the Roman soldiers who placed a crown of thorns on His head and dressed Him in a purple cloak, saluting Him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” (Jn 19:3). Even Pilate’s inscription atop the cross read, “Jesus the Nazorean, the King of the Jews” (Jn 19:19). This inscription, meant to be a form of mockery, ironically proclaimed a profound truth.
While on the cross, Jesus faced further mockery from the chief priests and scribes, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. Let the Messiah, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross that we may see and believe” (Mk 15:31-32). One of the criminals crucified alongside Jesus also mocked Him, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. So he is the king of Israel!” (Mt 27:42).
Final Moments and Ascension
After His resurrection, before His ascension, the disciples asked, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” (Acts 1:6). This question demonstrated their lingering hope and expectation of a political kingdom.
UNDERSTANDING JESUS’ KINGSHIP
Throughout His life, Jesus was recognized as a king by various groups: wise men, disciples, the crowds, and even His adversaries. However, the nature of His kingship was often misunderstood. People expected a political and military leader who would liberate them from Roman rule and restore the kingdom of Israel.
Jesus, however, presented a different kind of kingship. His kingdom was not of this world (Jn 18:36). He came to establish a spiritual kingdom, characterized by truth, love, and service. His kingship was about transforming hearts and lives rather than wielding political power.
REFLECTION
For us Christians, the kingship of Jesus calls us to recognize and submit to His authority in our lives. It challenges us to embrace His values of humility, service, and sacrificial love. Jesus’ kingship invites us to participate in His mission of spreading the Gospel and establishing God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live as citizens of His kingdom, embodying the principles He taught and demonstrated. This means prioritizing His will above our own, seeking justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with our God (Mic 6:8). It means recognizing Jesus as our Lord and King, allowing His reign to influence every aspect of our lives.
In a world often driven by power, ambition, and self-interest, Jesus’ kingship offers a radically different vision. It is a vision of a kingdom where the last are first, where leaders are servants, and where true greatness is found in self-giving love. As we reflect on the kingship of Jesus, may we be inspired to follow Him more closely and to live out His kingdom values in our daily lives.