we pay homage to Christ as our king through his cross
Preaching
Lectionary Preaching Workbook
Series V, Cycle B
Theme For The Day: At this end of the Church year we pay homage to Christ as our king through his cross.
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Lesson 1: 2 Samuel 23:1--7 (C)
These words are purported to be the last words of King David, though some scholars think that it comes from a much later era. The introduction identifies him as: "King David, the son of Jesse ...a man raised on high." Like Jesus, he had a lowly beginning and exalted end. The passage is actually a song that raises the point that God blesses the people ruled by a righteous sovereign but the godless will be disposed of.
Lesson 1: Daniel 7:13--14 (RC); Daniel 7:9--14 (E)
Lesson 2: Revelation 1:4b--8 (C); Revelation 1:1--8 (E); Revelation 1:5--8 (RC)
This is the introductory salutation to the seven churches (not the sum total of all the churches but the number which conveys completeness). It was believed that each church had a representative spirit (angel), who interceded before the throne of God. Both the beginning and ending of this passage stress the eternal nature of God: "the one who is, who was and who is to come" (v. 4b); then, "I am Alpha and Omega...." The Christ is referred to as the One who loves us and freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. This Jesus is coming in glory and all those who have rejected him will lament when they see his kingly power.
Gospel: John 18:33--37 (C, RC, E)
Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate's judgment seat. He has been charged with treason because his enemies report that he claims to be king of the Jews. Pilate asks Jesus if he really believes himself to be a king. The response of Jesus is ambiguous. "You say that I am." This can mean: You say that I am and it is true or that's just a charge that my enemies have made to you. I believe that Jesus is accepting the title of king but at the same time redefining it. He is not a worldly king but the king of truth.
Psalm Of The Day
Psalm 132:1--12 (C) - "Let thy priest be clothed with righteousness" (v. 9).
Psalm 93 (E)
Psalm 92 (RC)
Prayer Of The Day
Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to unite all creation under the glorious and gentle rule of your dear Son, Jesus, the Christ. Free us from all false allegiances, so that we might fall to our knees and confess that Jesus is our Lord, to the glory of God. In the precious and powerful name of Jesus, our crucified and risen king. Amen.
THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION ON THE LESSONS
Lesson 1: 2 Samuel 23:1--7
God exalts his chosen ones (v. 1). This verse identifies David as the son of Jesse but also as "the anointed of God." David had humble roots but God exalted him into a mighty oak. Some people seize power for themselves for a time, but only God grants true greatness.
Personal and corporate covenant (v. 5). David states that God has made with him an everlasting covenant. The covenant is not just with him personally but with his people. The Davidic covenant was both personal and corporate. So too, God's covenant with us in baptism is both personal and corporate. Faith comes through the community but needs to be ratified by each individual and each succeeding generation.
Lesson 2: Revelation 1:1--8
The blessing of public worship (v. 3). John pronounces a blessing on the person who reads aloud these words of prophecy. Most people were not educated and so the person who could read the Word at the assembly received a blessing from touching the lives of others with God's Word. Next, he says that those who hear are blessed. God's word has the power to change lives. Third, he states that those who keep God's word are blessed. The real blessing that comes from God's word occurs when we obey it.
King of love (v. 5). In the salutation, Jesus is described as "him who loves us." The emphasis is on the present tense. His love is shown by freeing us from our sins. Thus, the present experience of God's love comes from the cross "by his blood." On this "Christ the King" day, we celebrate the King of love.
The coming king (v. 7). Though Jesus came to earth in humility, he will come again, cloaked in power and glory. Many people refuse to see or serve the king of love, who reigns from the cross. However, someday ALL eyes will see our king as he comes in power and glory. This will be a glorious sight for those who believe but a fearsome sight for those who have rejected his reign (pierced him).
Gospel: John 18:33--37
Who's on the stand? (v. 33). Jesus is brought before Pilate for judgment but who is really in the hot seat? The defendant (Jesus) answers Pilate's question with a question. "Do you say this of your own accord?" Jesus was the free man but Pilate was a pawn of the Jewish leaders.
Not of this world (v. 36). Jesus answered Pilate that his kingship was not of this world. We need to carefully interpret this saying. Some could interpret it to mean that Jesus' kingship exists in some other realm of time and space but not in this world. Such an explanation would have Jesus abdicating power in this world. A much better interpretation is this: Jesus is drawing a distinction between the manner in which the kings of this world rule and the way that he rules. The kings of this world employ force, armies, threats and the like to impose their will on others. The strength of Jesus' rule stems from being grounded in divine truth, which transcends this world.
What is truth? (v. 38). Pilate was no idealist. He was into politics, a civil servant of Rome. His reply reveals his cynicism concerning the reality of absolute truth. For Pilate and for millions of contemporary folks, the idea of objective truth is laughable. They believe that truth is invented by those who have the power to do so. There's very much of a contemporary flavor to Pilate's remark: "What is truth?" According to gurus of our age, truth is defined by our own thoughts and feelings. What is truth for you is not necessarily truth for me and vice versa. Jesus' claim that he was born to bear witness to the truth was incomprehensible to Pilate. We are called by Christ to witness to the truth as he did (v. 37), the truth of human sin and God's salvation.
SERMON APPROACHES WITH ILLUSTRATIONS
Lesson 1: 2 Samuel 23:1--7
Sermon Title: The Song Of Salvation
Sermon Angle: Verse 1 introduces David as the "sweet Psalmist of Israel." David was a man of many talents - warrior, ruler, judge, poet, musician and songwriter. One could say that verses 2--7 are a song of salvation, as are many of the Psalms. David sings of God's gracious and everlasting covenant with him and his descendents. Not only did David weep before the Lord, he would also sing and dance. Why have so many pious souls made religion so boring, dull and lifeless? The redeemed of God should have a song on their lips.
Outline:
1. David is noted as the sweet Psalmist of Israel - his relationship with God put a song in his heart.
2. Why have we made our Christian religion so boring and devoid of song?
3. David could sing because he was close to God - "his word is upon my tongue."
4. Let us draw near to God and sing of his salvation.
Sermon Title: Are You Anointed?
Sermon Angle: David is also referred to as the "anointed of God," a term generally applied to the prophets, priests and kings of Israel. When those holding these positions were set apart for their service, they were anointed with holy oil, which conferred God's Spirit. Also, when people would prepare for a banquet or special occasion, they would anoint their faces with oil, much like we use make--up and other cosmetics. The oil would make their face shine and cast a healthy glow. As I look at the lives of many Christians, they don't appear very anointed. We are the anointed ones of God, if we believe our baptismal theology. Like David, does the Spirit speak through us (v. 2)? Is there a glow on our face and a song in our hearts?
Outline:
1. David was God's anointed (v. 1) - set apart as king and endowed with God's Spirit.
2. Anointing was also symbolic of gladness and celebration.
3. We have been anointed in baptism.
4. Does our anointing show?
Lesson 2: Revelation 1:1--8
Sermon Title: The End Is Near, Never Fear, Christ Is Here
Sermon Angle: The book of Revelation was written during a time of persecution. Many Christians looked at what was happening with a great deal of fear and foreboding. Some renounced their new--found faith, under pressure. The word from John is a message of hope. The first part of the message is that "the end is near" (v. 3). Just hang in there a while longer, Christ was coming soon. The end of their earthly suffering would mark the beginning of Christ's reign. The second part of John's message: "Never fear, Christ is here." He doesn't say this in so many words but speaks of how much Christ loves us (present tense) by freeing us from our sins through his blood (v. 6). It was this living Christ who was speaking through John to encourage his people. A third point could be: "Christ is soon coming here" (v. 7). We don't know when Christ will establish the kingdom but we believe that he's coming here.
Outline:
1. The message for the end of the church year - the end is near.
2. This should not evoke fear - Christ is here to sustain and strengthen us.
3. Jesus is soon coming here.
Sermon Title: Why Christ Deserves To Be Our King
Sermon Angle: After hearing about some of the scandalous and self--destructive behavior in the House of Windsor, one might assume that most of them don't deserve their royal titles. Christ, our king, is far different. Here are some reasons he deserves to be our king. He shows his love for us by freeing us from our sins through the cross (v. 5b). He witnessed to God's grace faithfully, which was authenticated by his rising from the dead (v. 5a). He has made us a kingdom of priests (v. 6).
Outline:
1. Many people in our country have little faith in our rulers.
2. Some of these officials don't deserve their titles or the honors that go with it.
3. Jesus deserves to be our king forever and ever because:
- He loves us.
- He died and rose again for us.
- He made us priests, who share in his reign.
Gospel: John 18:33--37
Sermon Title: Who Is The Real Traitor?
Sermon Angle: Jesus was accused by the Jewish leaders of treason, a capital offense. They said that he wanted to usurp the power of Rome and rule the Jews as their king. But who was the real traitor? The chief priests and the scribes had betrayed their faith by making religion a host of rules and regulations. They were the ones playing footsy with the Romans for their own political advantage. Then there's Pilate. He was called to uphold the most advanced justice system the world had ever known. Yet, he bowed to expediency rather than uphold the truth. He too betrayed that which was entrusted to him.
Outline:
1. Jesus was accused of treason - being a king.
2. Actually, Jesus' accusers were the real traitors - they betrayed their God and their conscience.
3. Pilate also betrayed his duty, to fairly administer Roman justice.
4. If you were charged with being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Would you be guilty of treason against Christ?
Sermon Title: Who Do You Worship As The King Of Truth?
Sermon Angle: In answer to Pilate's query as to whether Jesus was a king, Jesus states that he was born to bear witness to the truth (v. 37). In other words, he is the king of truth. Most people have some power, which they serve as their king of truth. The bottom line of their business might be their king of truth. Perhaps it's their own pleasure. Maybe they look to some other person as their king of truth, much like children look to their parents. For some scientists, their senses are their king of truth. Pilate's sovereign of truth was political expediency. Your sermon might profitably pose the question to each worshipper: "Who is your king of truth?"
Outline:
Introduction: Pilate scoffed at the idea of absolute truth. That's true of many people today. Yet, we all have some power that rules in our life, our king of truth.
1. For Pilate it was political expediency.
2. For the chief priests and scribes it was preserving the status quo.
3. Truth is embodied in Jesus. He lived and died for the truth (Second Lesson).
4. His resurrection proves that he is the king of truth.
5. Who do you worship as the king of truth?
Sermon Title: Born To Bear Witness
Sermon Angle: "For this I was born and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth" (v. 37). Jesus certainly did not deny that he was a king but he was not interested in asserting his kingship because he knew that what he said would be misconstrued. Jesus was not interested in claiming titles. He was consumed by a passion to accomplish the mission God gave him to do, to bear witness to the truth. The word for witness is the Greek word from which we also derive the word martyr. Jesus was so committed to the task of proclaiming divine truth that he was willing to sacrifice himself. To be a follower of the king of truth means that we are willing to bear witness to the truth with our very lives.
Outline:
1. Kings were born to rule. Jesus was born to rule as the king of truth, "to bear witness to the truth" (v. 37).
2. In our baptism, we are called to bear witness to the truth.
3. As Jesus bore witness with his life, so too must we. Does your life bear witness to the King of Truth?
__________
When somebody is well off financially, we say that he is living like a king. My wife and I recently got a chance to see just how lavishly kings, queens and their families really lived. No, we weren't invited to Buckingham Palace by Queen Elizabeth for high tea. Together with another couple, we traveled to the "Treasures Of The Czar" exhibit in Topeka, Kansas. I have never seen such an array of jewels in my life, thousands of rubies, diamonds, emeralds, sapphires and other precious stones, which bedecked not only the jewelry but their clothing, the liturgical apparel of their priests, even the saddles of their horses. In the room containing the coronation clothing, observers paused in reflective silence, imagining what it must have been like to be so splendidly arrayed. A regally suited herald stood in one display case, with his special leather bag containing notices of the coronation festivities. The life--sized picture of the last Czar of Russia, Nicholas II, commanded our attention with its majestic pose and handsome visage.
Against this background, Jesus' assertion that his kingdom is not of this world makes a good deal of sense. When Pilate said: "So you are a king" (v. 37), I can imagine a snicker in his tone. The charge seemed absurd! This Jesus, charged as claiming to be the king of the Jews, possessed none of the trappings of kingly power.
__________
Sermon Title: King Of Truth vs. Cult Leaders
Sermon Angle: When religious leaders assert absolute powers over the lives of their adherents, you can be sure that they are not servants of Christ, the king. Such leaders rule through deception, guilt and intimidation. Take Jim Jones, the founder of the People's Temple in Guyana. Loyalty to him meant renouncing family, selling all possessions and obeying his dictates without question. He ultimately demanded the lives of his followers, and over 900 died through murder or suicide. What are some of the differences between the way Christ rules as king of truth and the manner in which cult leaders operate?
Outline:
1. The cult leaders enslave through deception, Christ frees us through the truth.
2. Cult leaders have their devotees leave the world but Christ instructs us to serve the world.
3. Cults leaders employ guilt to manipulate their followers, Christ frees us from guilt through the cross.
4. Cult leaders want their people to put their minds on hold but Christ calls us to serve him with all our heart, soul and mind.
5. Finally, cult leaders call people to render absolute obedience to a human, while Christ calls us to render obedience to God.
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Lesson 1: 2 Samuel 23:1--7 (C)
These words are purported to be the last words of King David, though some scholars think that it comes from a much later era. The introduction identifies him as: "King David, the son of Jesse ...a man raised on high." Like Jesus, he had a lowly beginning and exalted end. The passage is actually a song that raises the point that God blesses the people ruled by a righteous sovereign but the godless will be disposed of.
Lesson 1: Daniel 7:13--14 (RC); Daniel 7:9--14 (E)
Lesson 2: Revelation 1:4b--8 (C); Revelation 1:1--8 (E); Revelation 1:5--8 (RC)
This is the introductory salutation to the seven churches (not the sum total of all the churches but the number which conveys completeness). It was believed that each church had a representative spirit (angel), who interceded before the throne of God. Both the beginning and ending of this passage stress the eternal nature of God: "the one who is, who was and who is to come" (v. 4b); then, "I am Alpha and Omega...." The Christ is referred to as the One who loves us and freed us from our sins, making us a kingdom of priests. This Jesus is coming in glory and all those who have rejected him will lament when they see his kingly power.
Gospel: John 18:33--37 (C, RC, E)
Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate's judgment seat. He has been charged with treason because his enemies report that he claims to be king of the Jews. Pilate asks Jesus if he really believes himself to be a king. The response of Jesus is ambiguous. "You say that I am." This can mean: You say that I am and it is true or that's just a charge that my enemies have made to you. I believe that Jesus is accepting the title of king but at the same time redefining it. He is not a worldly king but the king of truth.
Psalm Of The Day
Psalm 132:1--12 (C) - "Let thy priest be clothed with righteousness" (v. 9).
Psalm 93 (E)
Psalm 92 (RC)
Prayer Of The Day
Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to unite all creation under the glorious and gentle rule of your dear Son, Jesus, the Christ. Free us from all false allegiances, so that we might fall to our knees and confess that Jesus is our Lord, to the glory of God. In the precious and powerful name of Jesus, our crucified and risen king. Amen.
THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION ON THE LESSONS
Lesson 1: 2 Samuel 23:1--7
God exalts his chosen ones (v. 1). This verse identifies David as the son of Jesse but also as "the anointed of God." David had humble roots but God exalted him into a mighty oak. Some people seize power for themselves for a time, but only God grants true greatness.
Personal and corporate covenant (v. 5). David states that God has made with him an everlasting covenant. The covenant is not just with him personally but with his people. The Davidic covenant was both personal and corporate. So too, God's covenant with us in baptism is both personal and corporate. Faith comes through the community but needs to be ratified by each individual and each succeeding generation.
Lesson 2: Revelation 1:1--8
The blessing of public worship (v. 3). John pronounces a blessing on the person who reads aloud these words of prophecy. Most people were not educated and so the person who could read the Word at the assembly received a blessing from touching the lives of others with God's Word. Next, he says that those who hear are blessed. God's word has the power to change lives. Third, he states that those who keep God's word are blessed. The real blessing that comes from God's word occurs when we obey it.
King of love (v. 5). In the salutation, Jesus is described as "him who loves us." The emphasis is on the present tense. His love is shown by freeing us from our sins. Thus, the present experience of God's love comes from the cross "by his blood." On this "Christ the King" day, we celebrate the King of love.
The coming king (v. 7). Though Jesus came to earth in humility, he will come again, cloaked in power and glory. Many people refuse to see or serve the king of love, who reigns from the cross. However, someday ALL eyes will see our king as he comes in power and glory. This will be a glorious sight for those who believe but a fearsome sight for those who have rejected his reign (pierced him).
Gospel: John 18:33--37
Who's on the stand? (v. 33). Jesus is brought before Pilate for judgment but who is really in the hot seat? The defendant (Jesus) answers Pilate's question with a question. "Do you say this of your own accord?" Jesus was the free man but Pilate was a pawn of the Jewish leaders.
Not of this world (v. 36). Jesus answered Pilate that his kingship was not of this world. We need to carefully interpret this saying. Some could interpret it to mean that Jesus' kingship exists in some other realm of time and space but not in this world. Such an explanation would have Jesus abdicating power in this world. A much better interpretation is this: Jesus is drawing a distinction between the manner in which the kings of this world rule and the way that he rules. The kings of this world employ force, armies, threats and the like to impose their will on others. The strength of Jesus' rule stems from being grounded in divine truth, which transcends this world.
What is truth? (v. 38). Pilate was no idealist. He was into politics, a civil servant of Rome. His reply reveals his cynicism concerning the reality of absolute truth. For Pilate and for millions of contemporary folks, the idea of objective truth is laughable. They believe that truth is invented by those who have the power to do so. There's very much of a contemporary flavor to Pilate's remark: "What is truth?" According to gurus of our age, truth is defined by our own thoughts and feelings. What is truth for you is not necessarily truth for me and vice versa. Jesus' claim that he was born to bear witness to the truth was incomprehensible to Pilate. We are called by Christ to witness to the truth as he did (v. 37), the truth of human sin and God's salvation.
SERMON APPROACHES WITH ILLUSTRATIONS
Lesson 1: 2 Samuel 23:1--7
Sermon Title: The Song Of Salvation
Sermon Angle: Verse 1 introduces David as the "sweet Psalmist of Israel." David was a man of many talents - warrior, ruler, judge, poet, musician and songwriter. One could say that verses 2--7 are a song of salvation, as are many of the Psalms. David sings of God's gracious and everlasting covenant with him and his descendents. Not only did David weep before the Lord, he would also sing and dance. Why have so many pious souls made religion so boring, dull and lifeless? The redeemed of God should have a song on their lips.
Outline:
1. David is noted as the sweet Psalmist of Israel - his relationship with God put a song in his heart.
2. Why have we made our Christian religion so boring and devoid of song?
3. David could sing because he was close to God - "his word is upon my tongue."
4. Let us draw near to God and sing of his salvation.
Sermon Title: Are You Anointed?
Sermon Angle: David is also referred to as the "anointed of God," a term generally applied to the prophets, priests and kings of Israel. When those holding these positions were set apart for their service, they were anointed with holy oil, which conferred God's Spirit. Also, when people would prepare for a banquet or special occasion, they would anoint their faces with oil, much like we use make--up and other cosmetics. The oil would make their face shine and cast a healthy glow. As I look at the lives of many Christians, they don't appear very anointed. We are the anointed ones of God, if we believe our baptismal theology. Like David, does the Spirit speak through us (v. 2)? Is there a glow on our face and a song in our hearts?
Outline:
1. David was God's anointed (v. 1) - set apart as king and endowed with God's Spirit.
2. Anointing was also symbolic of gladness and celebration.
3. We have been anointed in baptism.
4. Does our anointing show?
Lesson 2: Revelation 1:1--8
Sermon Title: The End Is Near, Never Fear, Christ Is Here
Sermon Angle: The book of Revelation was written during a time of persecution. Many Christians looked at what was happening with a great deal of fear and foreboding. Some renounced their new--found faith, under pressure. The word from John is a message of hope. The first part of the message is that "the end is near" (v. 3). Just hang in there a while longer, Christ was coming soon. The end of their earthly suffering would mark the beginning of Christ's reign. The second part of John's message: "Never fear, Christ is here." He doesn't say this in so many words but speaks of how much Christ loves us (present tense) by freeing us from our sins through his blood (v. 6). It was this living Christ who was speaking through John to encourage his people. A third point could be: "Christ is soon coming here" (v. 7). We don't know when Christ will establish the kingdom but we believe that he's coming here.
Outline:
1. The message for the end of the church year - the end is near.
2. This should not evoke fear - Christ is here to sustain and strengthen us.
3. Jesus is soon coming here.
Sermon Title: Why Christ Deserves To Be Our King
Sermon Angle: After hearing about some of the scandalous and self--destructive behavior in the House of Windsor, one might assume that most of them don't deserve their royal titles. Christ, our king, is far different. Here are some reasons he deserves to be our king. He shows his love for us by freeing us from our sins through the cross (v. 5b). He witnessed to God's grace faithfully, which was authenticated by his rising from the dead (v. 5a). He has made us a kingdom of priests (v. 6).
Outline:
1. Many people in our country have little faith in our rulers.
2. Some of these officials don't deserve their titles or the honors that go with it.
3. Jesus deserves to be our king forever and ever because:
- He loves us.
- He died and rose again for us.
- He made us priests, who share in his reign.
Gospel: John 18:33--37
Sermon Title: Who Is The Real Traitor?
Sermon Angle: Jesus was accused by the Jewish leaders of treason, a capital offense. They said that he wanted to usurp the power of Rome and rule the Jews as their king. But who was the real traitor? The chief priests and the scribes had betrayed their faith by making religion a host of rules and regulations. They were the ones playing footsy with the Romans for their own political advantage. Then there's Pilate. He was called to uphold the most advanced justice system the world had ever known. Yet, he bowed to expediency rather than uphold the truth. He too betrayed that which was entrusted to him.
Outline:
1. Jesus was accused of treason - being a king.
2. Actually, Jesus' accusers were the real traitors - they betrayed their God and their conscience.
3. Pilate also betrayed his duty, to fairly administer Roman justice.
4. If you were charged with being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Would you be guilty of treason against Christ?
Sermon Title: Who Do You Worship As The King Of Truth?
Sermon Angle: In answer to Pilate's query as to whether Jesus was a king, Jesus states that he was born to bear witness to the truth (v. 37). In other words, he is the king of truth. Most people have some power, which they serve as their king of truth. The bottom line of their business might be their king of truth. Perhaps it's their own pleasure. Maybe they look to some other person as their king of truth, much like children look to their parents. For some scientists, their senses are their king of truth. Pilate's sovereign of truth was political expediency. Your sermon might profitably pose the question to each worshipper: "Who is your king of truth?"
Outline:
Introduction: Pilate scoffed at the idea of absolute truth. That's true of many people today. Yet, we all have some power that rules in our life, our king of truth.
1. For Pilate it was political expediency.
2. For the chief priests and scribes it was preserving the status quo.
3. Truth is embodied in Jesus. He lived and died for the truth (Second Lesson).
4. His resurrection proves that he is the king of truth.
5. Who do you worship as the king of truth?
Sermon Title: Born To Bear Witness
Sermon Angle: "For this I was born and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth" (v. 37). Jesus certainly did not deny that he was a king but he was not interested in asserting his kingship because he knew that what he said would be misconstrued. Jesus was not interested in claiming titles. He was consumed by a passion to accomplish the mission God gave him to do, to bear witness to the truth. The word for witness is the Greek word from which we also derive the word martyr. Jesus was so committed to the task of proclaiming divine truth that he was willing to sacrifice himself. To be a follower of the king of truth means that we are willing to bear witness to the truth with our very lives.
Outline:
1. Kings were born to rule. Jesus was born to rule as the king of truth, "to bear witness to the truth" (v. 37).
2. In our baptism, we are called to bear witness to the truth.
3. As Jesus bore witness with his life, so too must we. Does your life bear witness to the King of Truth?
__________
When somebody is well off financially, we say that he is living like a king. My wife and I recently got a chance to see just how lavishly kings, queens and their families really lived. No, we weren't invited to Buckingham Palace by Queen Elizabeth for high tea. Together with another couple, we traveled to the "Treasures Of The Czar" exhibit in Topeka, Kansas. I have never seen such an array of jewels in my life, thousands of rubies, diamonds, emeralds, sapphires and other precious stones, which bedecked not only the jewelry but their clothing, the liturgical apparel of their priests, even the saddles of their horses. In the room containing the coronation clothing, observers paused in reflective silence, imagining what it must have been like to be so splendidly arrayed. A regally suited herald stood in one display case, with his special leather bag containing notices of the coronation festivities. The life--sized picture of the last Czar of Russia, Nicholas II, commanded our attention with its majestic pose and handsome visage.
Against this background, Jesus' assertion that his kingdom is not of this world makes a good deal of sense. When Pilate said: "So you are a king" (v. 37), I can imagine a snicker in his tone. The charge seemed absurd! This Jesus, charged as claiming to be the king of the Jews, possessed none of the trappings of kingly power.
__________
Sermon Title: King Of Truth vs. Cult Leaders
Sermon Angle: When religious leaders assert absolute powers over the lives of their adherents, you can be sure that they are not servants of Christ, the king. Such leaders rule through deception, guilt and intimidation. Take Jim Jones, the founder of the People's Temple in Guyana. Loyalty to him meant renouncing family, selling all possessions and obeying his dictates without question. He ultimately demanded the lives of his followers, and over 900 died through murder or suicide. What are some of the differences between the way Christ rules as king of truth and the manner in which cult leaders operate?
Outline:
1. The cult leaders enslave through deception, Christ frees us through the truth.
2. Cult leaders have their devotees leave the world but Christ instructs us to serve the world.
3. Cults leaders employ guilt to manipulate their followers, Christ frees us from guilt through the cross.
4. Cult leaders want their people to put their minds on hold but Christ calls us to serve him with all our heart, soul and mind.
5. Finally, cult leaders call people to render absolute obedience to a human, while Christ calls us to render obedience to God.
