Jesus Is... Sermon Series - Part 5

May 26th, 2025
by Pastor Paul

King of Kings & Lord of Lords

Sermon follow-up 5/26/25

Introduction
In a world where we often crown people as "kings" of various domains—from Michael Jackson as the King of Pop to LeBron James as the self-proclaimed King of Basketball—there is only one true King who reigns supreme over all: Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

What does it mean that Jesus is the King of Kings?
The title "King of Kings" appears throughout Scripture, sometimes applied to earthly rulers like Nebuchadnezzar. However, "Lord of Lords" was reserved for God alone. It's only in the New Testament that these titles are combined and applied to Jesus, signifying His supreme authority over all creation.

Mark begins his gospel by immediately establishing Jesus' royal identity: "The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God" (Mark 1:1). The term "Messiah" is a royal term, identifying Jesus as the promised King.

In Revelation, we get the clearest picture of Jesus' kingship:
"John, to the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come...and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth." (Revelation 1:4-5)

Later in Revelation, we read: "On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS" (Revelation 19:16).

Why does Jesus' kingship matter in our daily lives?
Understanding Jesus as King of Kings matters for three primary reasons:

1. He possesses ultimate power and authority

When we think of powerful rulers throughout history—Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Charlemagne—their power pales in comparison to Jesus'. Philippians 2:9-11 tells us that "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth."

In Mark 1, we see Jesus' authority on display:

He calls disciples who immediately leave everything to follow Him
He teaches with unprecedented authority
Even demons recognize and obey His commands

As Mark 1:27 records, the people were amazed: "What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him."

2. He protects and provides for His people

The best kings throughout history used their power to protect and provide for their people. Jesus, as the perfect King, does this perfectly.

Psalm 145 paints this beautiful picture: "The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing."

Ephesians 1 confirms Jesus' ability to care for us, stating that God has placed "all things under his feet" and appointed him "head over everything for the church."

When we recognize Jesus as our King, we can take comfort in Psalm 34: "Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame... Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing."

3. He deserves our complete allegiance

If Jesus is truly King of Kings and Lord of Lords, then He deserves our allegiance. Philippians reminds us that eventually everyone will bow to Jesus—the question is whether we'll do so willingly now or be compelled to later.

Following Jesus means following Him wherever He leads, even when the path seems difficult or dangerous. As G.K. Chesterton noted, "Jesus promised his disciples three things: that they would be completely fearless, absurdly happy, and in constant trouble."

What does it look like to follow the King?
In Mark 1, the disciples immediately left everything to follow Jesus. While this doesn't mean following Jesus will be easy, it does mean it will be worth it.

George MacDonald's story "The Princess and the Goblin" illustrates this beautifully. In the story, a princess receives a ring with an invisible thread that will always lead her home. Though following the thread sometimes leads her into dark, scary places, it ultimately brings her to safety.
Similarly, following Jesus may lead us through difficult circumstances, but He will always lead us home. As Tim Keller puts it, "He followed his thread to the cross so that you could follow your thread into his arms."

The story of the Indian convert who sang "I have decided to follow Jesus" even as his family was executed demonstrates the ultimate allegiance we owe to our King. Though following Jesus cost this man everything earthly, he gained eternity—and his faithfulness led an entire village to Christ.

Life Application

As we conclude, consider how recognizing Jesus as King of Kings and Lord of Lords should impact your daily life:
- Surrender your authority: In what areas of your life are you still trying to maintain control rather than submitting to Jesus' kingship? What would it look like to surrender those areas to Him this week?
- Trust His provision: Where are you anxious or worried? Remember that the King of Kings has "all things under His feet" and can provide for your every need.
- Follow where He leads: Is there something Jesus is calling you to do that seems difficult or scary? Remember that following the thread of His guidance—even into dark places—ultimately leads to life.
- Declare His kingship: How can you acknowledge Jesus as King in your conversations, decisions, and priorities this week?
Ask yourself: If Jesus truly is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, how should that transform the way I live today?