My Kingdom is Not of this World
Although Pilate calls Jesus “the king of the Jews”, he fails to recognise the origin or extent of Jesus’ true Kingdom or Kingship. In the new world to come, Jesus will fully express all power and authority; the sphere of God’s life giving, saving, reign, will be completely manifest. In the meantime, in this world, He reigns through weakness and suffering. But through his suffering, death, and glorious resurrection, he gathers hearts who submit to his Kingship, from within the kingdoms of the world.
Sermon Reflection Questions
1. Read John 18:28-19:16. As you read John’s telling of the meeting between Jesus and Pilate, what stands out for you in their conversation? Explain or explore why this stands out to you.
2. “What is truth?” Pilate asked (John 18:38). It has been said that because Pilate asked this question, he was clearly not ‘on the side of truth’ (v37). How would you answer Pilate’s question?
3. In previous encounters with Jesus, we have seen him exercise his divine power and authority. Yet in this scene he allows Pilate to have authority over him. Discuss your response to Jesus’ words in John 19:11 – ‘You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.’ Does this have any impact on the way you view events in the world today?
4. Christ’s Kingdom spans eternity, past, present and future. How do you see His Kingdom active today?
5. Are you ready for the future consummation of the Kingdom? What do you need to do to be ready for that Day?
6. Spend some time worshipping the King – in prayer, watching one or more of the youtube videos, singing your own song, or writing your own hymn of praise. Can you think of an act of service that could also be an act or worship?
Praise and Worship
This Kingdom https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FInBsbSCnWk
King of Kings Majesty https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGnpfYqwO8k
Majesty [Here I Am] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=od6BWMFG7jk
King of Glory https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aqo-adRyM_k
At the Name of Jesus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4d4UXSJXig
The Servant King https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rh4xEvMVQQ