Names of Jesus Series: Episode 18 Jesus the King of the Jews

Hello, my walking friend! I bet you have already started walking – if so, yay you! Remember, 10 minutes of walking a day could increase your lifespan! So get your blood pumping and set your mind and heart to focus on Jesus.

Today is the 18^th episode in the names of Jesus series. Have you noticed that some of the names for Jesus were a little controversial when they were used? Some maybe even today. Today’s name could be one of them because today we are reflecting on Jesus, the King of the Jews.

Our verse to meditate on today is Mark 15:2 NIV:

“Are you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate. 
“You have said so,” Jesus replied.

Jesus never called himself the King of the Jews – but it was prophesied about him and others gave him that title. 

Zechariah prophesied about his royal entry into Jerusalem on what we celebrate as Palm Sunday:

“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey”

When Jesus was born, the Magi recognized him as King of the Jews.

“Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” 

And when he was crucified, this title was nailed to his cross:

“Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS”

Even though Jesus didn’t refer to himself as King of the Jews, it is clear that this was a name rightly given to him.

Take a little time now to meditate on Mark 15:2:

“Are you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate.
“You have said so,” Jesus replied.

Did Jesus reveal anything special to you as you meditated on the verse? 

Here’s what Jesus revealed to me as I studied and meditated on this verse:

The nation Israel longed for rescue. They longed for a king who would set them free from the bondage of an oppressive government. So great was their desire for a worldly king to rescue them from their physical situation that many did not recognize Jesus as the savior who redeemed them from their spiritual bondage. Do you think his image bearers feel that way in the world today? I think so. It must sadden Jesus that many people are more concerned about this life than the afterlife. The world we live in is not his kingdom. It is his desire that we will care more about his heavenly kingdom than this one. And his deepest desire is that we, Jews and Gentiles alike, would make him the king of our hearts. Today, my walking friend, let’s remember to pray for our Jewish friends who have not accepted their king, that they would open their minds and hearts to see Jesus as their Messiah and redeemer and make him the king of their hearts.

Let’s take some time to meditate again on Jesus, the King of the Jews, and what that means to us. 

You are now at the halfway point of your walk. If you need to be back in 10 minutes, this would be the time to turn around and head back.

Now I am going to pray for us:

Dear Jesus,

Forgive me for the times that I look for human rescue from the oppressors of this world. Remind me that my help doesn’t come from politicians or activist groups. My help comes from you, my King and Lord. There are times, in my heart, when I want to judge those who have rejected you. Please convict my spirit when I feel this way and forgive me. Help me to always remember the times that I, too, have rejected you in word and deed. Humble me so that my thoughts turn to prayers for unbelievers instead of judgement. Remove any pride in my heart so that I can make you, and you alone, the Lord and King of my life. I am so grateful, Jesus, for all you have done for me. And I’m so humbled that you, my King, walk with me always. Amen.

Here are some questions for you to consider:

Have you ever felt scorn or anger toward those who deny Jesus and his deity? What can you do to remind yourself to pray for them instead? Think about that now.

Do you ever feel discouraged about the state of your government? Do you often look only to people to solve our nation’s problems? If so, take  time to repent and pray to the King of Kings for his intervention in our government now.

Instead of putting too much focus on this world, Jesus wants us to be heavenly focused. What can you do to shift your perspective to a heavenly one today as you walk? Consider that now.

Before we wrap up, listen to today’s verse one last time Mark 15:2:

“Are you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate.
“You have said so,” Jesus replied.

Is there anything else you would like to talk to Jesus about? Remember, he is right there with you, walking with you, and he is eager for you to share all that is on your heart and mind with him. Take some time to talk to Jesus now.

Well, you did it! 10 minutes of walking! Good job! Thank you for taking the time to walk with me, my friend. But more importantly, you walked with Jesus! And I know that he will bless you above and beyond what you can imagine for spending this time with him. For more Walk with Jesus resources, including the Walk with Jesus 21 day scripture, devotional, and guided prayer journal book for walkers, go to WalkwithJesusDevotional.com. The October edition focuses on the names of Jesus and is a part of this series. You will find the URL for this book and other resources in the podcast show notes. 

 I hope we can walk together again tomorrow, friend. In our next episode we will consider another name of Jesus – Jesus the Priest. Until then, God bless you as you walk with Jesus.