Around the time of Jesus, there had been many rulers or local ‘kings’ who

were detested by the people. One such ruler, Archelaus, had been left the

title king of Judea when his Father - Herod the Great - had died and his

empire was divided up amongst his sons. Archelaus was detested for good

reason, including that he had massacred 3,000 people at the first Passover

after his accession. Not wanting Archelaus as their leader, the people sent

representatives (just like in the parable) to request that he would not be

made their king. However, history tells us that Archelaus was still made

the ruler (although not conferred the title ‘king’) and he returned to the

region.

So how does this relate to Jesus? Well, clearly not in the quality of

kingship - for Jesus is the perfect and good king - but that even though

many would reject Jesus, rebel against him, and resist his rule, that he is

indeed the rightful ruler and nothing can interfere with his kingship. How

we respond to Jesus has no bearing on the reality of who he is, it only

changes our relationship to him!

Jesus has rightly been appointed the King of Kings and will return one day

soon. How we receive and welcome him matters. AL

Questions

What were the different ways in which people responded to Jesus?

Does the way that people receive Jesus change who he is?

How is Jesus a good and ultimate king? What gives us confidence about

putting our trust in him and living our lives for him?

Prayer

Gracious God, thank you that Jesus is indeed the King of Kings! Please help

us to joyfully receive and recognise him for who he truly is. In the power

of your Spirit, please convict us of any areas in our lives in which we

resist Jesus’ rule and reign. Help us to live for him, point to him, and

rejoice in him. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.