The King on the Cross

On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:

King of Kings and LORD of LORDS.

Revelation 19:16

The gospel of Matthew presents Jesus as King. This gospel begins with exaltation and worship of King Jesus. Matthew 1 records Jesus’ kingly lineage. Matthew 2 tells the story of the Magi, who traveled to worship the One born king of the Jews.  

However, the pages of Matthew’s gospel reveal many rejected Jesus. Religious leaders knew the prophecies of the coming Messiah King. Often, they had praised the coming King through the Psalms. Yet, they did not recognize, nor acknowledge Jesus as the one, true King. Eventually, they declared the King of Kings worthy of death.

At Jesus’ trial, Pilate asked, “Are you the king of the Jews?” “Yes, it is as you say,” Jesus replied (Matthew 27:11). Pilate declared Jesus to be without fault and presented Jesus to His accusers as king. Pilates’ judgment of Jesus was true. Jesus was and is the sinless King. Yet, He was condemned to crucifixion.

The soldiers who crucified Jesus placed a scarlet robe and a crown of twisted thorns upon Jesus. Hailing Him as king, they struck Him. Religious leaders joined in the mockery as Jesus hung on the cross, declaring Him to be King of Israel.

Through the centuries, many have rejected Jesus as King, but He is and always will be King.

That day, at least one believed. The thief on the cross beside Jesus proclaimed, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). Through belief, he was promised eternal life with Jesus. Thus, with this thief began the fulfillment of Jesus’ words: And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all people to myself (John 12:32). King Jesus willingly suffered and died to save sinful people.

Have you acknowledged Jesus as King of Kings and LORD of LORDS?  

King Jesus, thank you for willingly laying down your life to open heaven to all who believe. You are King of Kings who will reign forever!  

Jan