The King that Rules All Kingdoms

The scribes and the chief priests sought to lay hands on him at that very hour, for they perceived that he had told this parable against them, but they feared the people. So they watched him and sent spies, who pretended to be sincere, that they might catch him in something he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor. So they asked him, “Teacher, we know that you speak and teach rightly, and show no partiality, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, “Show me a denarius. Whose likeness and inscription does it have?” They said, “Caesar’s.” He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent” (Luke 20:19-26).

The point of the parable of the wicked tenants had found its mark in the hearts of the wicked religious leaders. Jesus’ intention was for them to repent and take the steps toward becoming more effective spiritual leaders, “but they feared the people” more than the Lord. Fear drove them to craftiness, and with insincere and deceived hearts they attempted to trap God with worldly cunning. How silly, you might say? Do we sense a little conviction in our own hearts? Have we not, from time to time, tried to reason with God over something He wants to do in us to help us to grow up further in Christ?... “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12-13). Jesus replied to their vain attempt to trap Him with a question that revealed to them and to us the truth about authority. He made it clear that while there are several kinds of kingdoms, He alone is the king that rules all kingdoms.

There are the kingdoms of the world. God institutes and limits the authority of worldly kingdoms… “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” (Romans 13:1). God creates worldly kingdoms to enable the advancement of His kingdom on the earth… “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:1-4). True disciples respect and submit to the kingdoms of the world as Jesus did.

There is the kingdom of God. God’s kingdom has unlimited and eternal authority… “He was given power, honor, and a kingdom. People from every province, nation, and language were to serve him. His power is an eternal power that will not be taken away. His kingdom will never be destroyed” (Daniel 7:14). We are to live as loyal citizens and subjects of God’s kingdom… “We, however, are citizens of heaven. We look forward to the Lord Jesus Christ coming from heaven as our Savior” (Philippians 3:20). Diligent disciples trust and obey Christ, living in this world and the next as subjects of the kingdom of God.

There is one King over all kingdoms. God establishes His Son Jesus Christ as the authority of all kingdoms… “Our Lord Jesus Christ… he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords” (1 Timothy 6:14-15). Jesus will conquer all kingdoms and authority for God… “They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful” (Revelation 17:14). Jesus will surrender all kingdoms and authority to His Father… “Then comes the end, when he delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power” (1 Corinthians 15:24). Maturing disciples serve Christ, the King over all kingdoms.

As we grow up into Christ, we enjoy the blessings of His sovereignty as we learn to obey…

The King that Rules All Kingdoms.