December 2. The King of the Jews
J.R. Miller emphasizes that Jesus, though rejected and crucified, is truly the King of the Jews, fulfilling ancient Messianic prophecies and reigning through His sacrifice.
In this sermon, J.R. Miller explores the profound truth that Jesus Christ is the King of the Jews, as declared by Pilate and fulfilled through prophecy. Despite rejection and crucifixion, Jesus reigns supreme, with His cross as His throne and a crown of thorns as His royal insignia. Miller invites listeners to recognize the significance of Jesus' kingship and the fulfillment of God's promises through His life and sacrifice.
Text
"Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS." Matthew 27:37
There was no other crime charged. He had done nothing amiss. Pilate had satisfied himself of that. He had examined Him, and could find no fault in Him — hence he would not write any charge on His cross but this, that He was the King of the Jews. The rulers objected to this, and wanted him to write that "he said" He was "King of the Jews;" but Pilate would not change a word, and there it stood above His head during all the agony and all the darkness "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews."
And so He was. The tablet told the truth, though erected to mock the people. He was the Messiah who had been promised all through the centuries. He was the King of whom David was but the type. He was the Christ who had been foretold by prophets, and waited for age after age by the nation. At last He came. Angels sang at His birth. His life had been one of great blessing and power. He had wrought miracles of mercy all over the land. He had taught, speaking as never any man spoke. He had fulfilled all the Messianic conditions. Yet His enemies had rejected Him; and at last they led Him out to Calvary and nailed Him on the cross! Still He was their King — their King rejected, their King crucified. His throne was His cross! His crown was the circlet of thorns that the soldiers had twisted and wound around His head!
It does not seem to us a kingly hour in our Lord\
Sermon Outline
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I
- The inscription above Jesus' head: 'King of the Jews'
- Pilate's declaration of Jesus' innocence
- The rulers' objection and Pilate's refusal to alter the charge
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II
- Jesus as the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy
- The significance of Jesus' kingship despite rejection
- The symbolism of the cross as His throne and the crown of thorns
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III
- The contrast between Jesus' kingly birth and His crucifixion
- The power and blessing of Jesus' earthly ministry
- The ultimate triumph of Jesus' kingship through sacrifice
Key Quotes
“Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.” — J.R. Miller
“His throne was His cross! His crown was the circlet of thorns that the soldiers had twisted and wound around His head!” — J.R. Miller
“He was the Messiah who had been promised all through the centuries.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- Recognize Jesus as the true King even in moments of suffering and rejection.
- Trust in the fulfillment of God's promises through Christ's life and sacrifice.
- Embrace the humility and servant leadership exemplified by Jesus' kingship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Pilate write 'King of the Jews' on the cross?
Pilate wrote this as the official charge against Jesus, acknowledging His claim and innocence despite the objections of Jewish leaders.
How was Jesus the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy?
Jesus fulfilled the conditions foretold by prophets, being the promised Messiah awaited by Israel for centuries.
What does the crown of thorns symbolize?
It symbolizes the mockery and suffering Jesus endured as the King, highlighting His humility and sacrifice.
Why is Jesus called the King despite His crucifixion?
Because His kingship is spiritual and eternal, demonstrated through His sacrificial death and resurrection.