Message from Scripture: 6/23/2021

 

Today, our message from Scripture comes from John 18:36. “My kingdom is not of this world,” said Jesus. “If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight, so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.”

 

While Jesus emphasized to Pilate His kingdom wasn’t of this world, He didn’t mean that He had no kingdom over which to reign. That He now reigns is seen in His having all authority in heaven and on earth (Matt. 28:18), and that He is at the right hand of the Majesty on high (Heb. 1:3).  John can write confidently of Christ, “These will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will conquer them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings. Those with him are called, chosen, and faithful” (Rev. 17:14).

 

Jesus is King over His kingdom, the church (Col. 1:13-14). His concern is for the welfare of those for whom He died, to offer the promise of eternal life. While He will judge everyone on the last day (Acts 17:31), right now His desire is for everyone to be part of His kingdom and have salvation through Him (Eph. 5:27).  His reign is based on love, providing all spiritual blessings (Eph. 1:3), and everything pertaining to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3).  In Him we have grace and peace (2 Thess. 2:16-17). Truly, there has never been another king as concerned with His subjects as Christ is for us.

 

Since Jesus is king over His kingdom, the church, our response to Him must be one of love, of submission, of expectation of what lies ahead when we’re all joined together in God’s presence. Today, let’s go out to serve our Lord, Savior, and King, and remember all His blessings and benefits for today, for eternity. God bless.

 

Robert