Dear Explorer,
Re-read John 19:15
Who is your king?
As we look at this cast of characters, we'll see who their king was. Can other people look at your life and tell who it is that you serve?
Earlier in John 18:33, it's recorded that Pilate asked Jesus specifically if he was the king of the Jews. He responded yes, but not an earthly kingdom. Then in our text for today we see that the chief priests and those with him boldly declare that they have no king but Caesar.
So, who do you think was Pilate's king? Who do you think he was most loyal to and thought about the most?
I believe it was himself and his own kingdom. He feared the chief priests because he knew that they could complain to Caesar about his rule and he would lose his job! So, the Chief priests simply pushed Pilate's buttons so that he would crucify Jesus to protect his own job - because they knew that Pilate's king was himself and his kingdom.
Who was king of the Chief priests and leaders of the Jews? They claimed their king was Caesar - but was it?
They were doing everything within their power to hold onto their position and rank as Chief priests and rulers of the Jews. They were willing to murder to keep their position. I believe, once again, they were simply serving themselves. They were most interested in saving their job security and power and position. If it was convenient to bow down to Caesar - they did. If it was convenient to suddenly become "religious" - they did. They did whatever was pleasing to themselves.
So, that brings us to who would people say is your king? Does it really matter what you think or say -- if your life tells a different story? Are you bending your knee to Him at all times - or are you just doing what is convenient and comfortable?
Jesus was bowing his knee to God's will to the point of death. You can readily see who His King was!
We'll continue this discussion tomorrow.
In His service, dale
Next study