The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

THE RULING KING FROM JUDAH

The royal lineage of Jesus is foreshadowed in the images of this text. The scepter was an ornate rod used by kings to communicate their authoritative dictates. Those in power could grant laws and enact judgment should one fail to submit to their rule. “He to whom it belongs” is an obscure phrase, likely referring to the divine King and lawgiver who would come from the line of Judah to fulfill the promises of this passage. To this King, all people, not simply those of a certain earthly kingdom, would owe their allegiance.

Jesus, the King from the tribe of Judah, ushers in the kingdom of God and announces the rule and reign of God through his incarnation. One day, all people (in heaven, on earth and under the earth) will bow at his very name (Php 2:9 – 11). As the great suffering servant, his earthly ministry and his execution via a criminal’s death seem to undermine his cosmic rule. But his victorious resurrection and glorious ascension vindicate his claim to deity and establish him as the King of kings and Lord of lords and the one to whom all people owe their worship (Ro 1:4).

Jesus, I cannot wait till that moment when all creation will bow at the sound of your name. Until then, help my heart to stay bowed to you in all that I do. Amen.