Pilate seems somewhat surprised that under the circumstances – knowing full well that he would be crucified – Jesus admits to being a king. In the earthly Roman system, this admission becomes the reason for his crucifixion. This accusation eventually is nailed to his cross: ‘King of the Jews’. It is a misunderstood truth!
But Jesus
leads Pilate into another debate: truth. Jesus embodies the way, the truth and the life that he came to be and proclaims to all God’s people. Jesus’ mission was to establish God’s rule over all of God’s people despite their belief in and dependence on other-worldly kingdoms, kings and governments. The truth was that God, in Jesus, claimed the rightful role as ruler over all. Pilate had to understand and bow to that truth. We need to do the same.
When we understand and accept the truth of God and Jesus, his Son, we will listen to and follow him first, over and above our allegiances to earthly powers and systems—political, economic, social, and even spiritual.
Has Jesus established his rightful rule over your life?
How are you inclined to block or allow the goodness of his kingdom to flow from your life?
Ask Jesus to help you be and behave more like a citizen of his kingdom.
Reflections by Reggie Venter
