Reflecting on John 18:28-40“My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:26)
Pilate is operating like a leader of this world.
“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you…” (Matthew 20:25-26)
Jesus is not a king like this, lording it over others.
The kingdom of God isn’t one person over others, but all people as servant leaders.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:26-28)
Pilate is acting like a king, but Jesus is acting with true kingly authority.
God and Jesus’s authority are not top down, controlling authority.
Pilate did not understand this, and many christians do not either.
God’s kingdom is about going beneath and lifting up, serving and sacrificing.
As Jesus followers we should stop trying to control the world.
Instead we are to lead like Jesus, with humility, grace and compassion.
THIS is how God’s kingdom comes, and how Jesus overcomes the world!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, help Your church to stop using money, politics or protest to win or maintain control of the world. Help us to exercise authority like You did, with humility, grace and compassion. May YOUR kingdom come!