John 18:36
Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world; if it were, My servants would fight to prevent My arrest by the Jews. But now My kingdom is not of this realm."
My kingdom
In this phrase, Jesus refers to His divine authority and the spiritual realm over which He reigns. The Greek word for "kingdom" is "basileia," which implies a royal dominion or rule. This kingdom is not of earthly origin but is a manifestation of God's sovereign rule. Historically, the Jewish expectation of a Messiah was one who would establish a political kingdom, overthrowing Roman rule. However, Jesus clarifies that His kingdom transcends earthly politics and is rooted in spiritual truth and eternal life.

is not of this world
Here, Jesus distinguishes His kingdom from earthly kingdoms. The Greek word "kosmos" is used for "world," often referring to the secular, fallen world system opposed to God. Jesus' kingdom operates on principles of love, truth, and righteousness, contrasting with the power struggles and corruption of worldly systems. This statement underscores the spiritual nature of His reign and the call for His followers to live by heavenly values rather than conforming to worldly standards.

If My kingdom were of this world
Jesus uses a conditional statement to emphasize the difference between His kingdom and earthly ones. The implication is that if His kingdom were worldly, it would be characterized by physical force and political power. This highlights the non-violent, sacrificial nature of Jesus' mission. Historically, earthly kingdoms have been established and maintained through military might, but Jesus' kingdom is advanced through the transformative power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit.

My servants would fight
The Greek word for "servants" is "hypēretai," which can also mean attendants or officers. Jesus indicates that if His kingdom were earthly, His followers would engage in physical combat to defend Him. This contrasts with the behavior of His disciples, who are called to spiritual warfare through prayer, love, and the proclamation of the Gospel. The early church, despite persecution, followed this example, spreading Christianity through peaceful means rather than rebellion.

to prevent My arrest by the Jews
Jesus acknowledges the immediate context of His arrest, orchestrated by Jewish leaders who saw Him as a threat to their authority. The phrase highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious establishment, who misunderstood His mission. Historically, this arrest was a pivotal moment leading to the crucifixion, which, paradoxically, fulfilled God's redemptive plan. Jesus' willingness to be arrested demonstrates His submission to the Father's will and His commitment to the salvation of humanity.

But now
This phrase introduces a contrast, indicating a present reality that differs from what might be expected. The word "now" suggests a divine timing and purpose in the unfolding events. Jesus' use of "now" points to the fulfillment of prophecy and the inauguration of a new covenant through His death and resurrection. It signifies a turning point in salvation history, where the kingdom of God is being established in the hearts of believers.

My kingdom is not from here
Reiterating the otherworldly nature of His kingdom, Jesus emphasizes that His authority and mission originate from heaven. The phrase "not from here" underscores the divine source and ultimate destiny of His reign. This statement invites believers to shift their focus from earthly concerns to eternal realities, living as citizens of heaven. It challenges Christians to align their lives with the values of God's kingdom, seeking first His righteousness and trusting in His sovereign plan.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is responding to Pontius Pilate during His trial. He clarifies the nature of His kingdom, emphasizing its spiritual rather than earthly nature.

2. Pontius Pilate
The Roman governor presiding over Jesus' trial. Pilate is questioning Jesus to determine whether He poses a political threat to Roman authority.

3. The Kingdom of God
Jesus refers to His kingdom, which is not of this world, indicating a spiritual reign rather than a political or earthly one.

4. The Arrest by the Jews
This event refers to the Jewish leaders' role in arresting Jesus and bringing Him before Pilate, highlighting the tension between Jesus' spiritual mission and the political concerns of the time.

5. The Servants of Jesus
Jesus mentions His servants, who would fight if His kingdom were earthly, indicating the non-violent nature of His mission and the spiritual allegiance of His followers.
Teaching Points
Understanding the Nature of Jesus' Kingdom
Jesus' kingdom is spiritual and eternal, not bound by earthly politics or power structures. Believers are called to prioritize spiritual values over worldly concerns.

Non-Violence and Spiritual Warfare
Jesus' reference to His servants not fighting underscores the principle of non-violence and the spiritual nature of the battle believers are engaged in.

Allegiance to a Higher Authority
As followers of Christ, our primary allegiance is to His kingdom, which transcends national or political identities. This calls for a life that reflects kingdom values.

Living as Citizens of Heaven
Believers are called to live as citizens of heaven, embodying the principles of Jesus' kingdom in their daily lives, such as love, peace, and righteousness.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Jesus' calm assurance in the face of trial demonstrates trust in God's sovereign plan. Believers can find peace in knowing that God's kingdom is unshakeable.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding the spiritual nature of Jesus' kingdom affect the way you view your role in the world today?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate allegiance to Jesus' kingdom in your daily life, especially in situations that challenge your faith?

3. How does the concept of non-violence in Jesus' response to Pilate influence your approach to conflict and disagreement?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to choose between worldly values and kingdom values. What did you learn from that experience?

5. How can the assurance of God's sovereignty, as seen in Jesus' response, provide comfort and guidance in your current circumstances?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 26:53
Jesus speaks about the availability of angelic forces, reinforcing the idea that His kingdom operates on a different plane than earthly kingdoms.

Philippians 3:20
Paul writes about believers' citizenship in heaven, aligning with Jesus' statement about His kingdom not being of this world.

Romans 14:17
Paul describes the kingdom of God as one of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, further illustrating the spiritual nature of Jesus' kingdom.
Christ's KingdomJ. Burroughs.John 18:36
Christ's Kingdom not of This WorldE. de Pressense, D. D.John 18:36
Christ's Kingdom not of This WorldM. D. Hoge, D. D.John 18:36
Christ's Kingdom not of This WorldSoame Jenyns.John 18:36
The Invisible Growth of Christ's KingdomH. W. Beecher.John 18:36
The Kingdom of ChristD. Moore, M. A.John 18:36
The Spirituality of Christ's KingdomA. G. Brown.John 18:36
The True KingdomJ. ParkerJohn 18:36
The Unworldly KingdomJ.R. Thomson John 18:36
Christ Before Pilate; Or, Worldly Views of ReligionD. Rowlands, B. A.John 18:33-38
Pilate's Address and Christ's ReplyD. Thomas, D. D.John 18:33-38
Pilate's First Examination of ChristT. Whitelaw, D. D.John 18:33-38
The Great QuestionH. J. W. Buxton, M. A.John 18:33-38
People
Annas, Barabbas, Caiaphas, Jesus, Judas, Malchus, Peter, Pilate, Simon
Places
Jerusalem, Kidron, Nazareth
Topics
Arrest, Belong, Delivered, Disciples, Fact, Fight, Fighting, Fought, Handed, Hands, Hence, Jews, Kingdom, Kingship, Matter, Officers, Origin, Prevent, Realm, Replied, Resolutely, Save, Servants, Struggled, Subjects, Wouldn't
Dictionary of Bible Themes
John 18:36

     2345   Christ, kingdom of
     2378   kingdom of God, characteristics
     4027   world, fallen
     6634   deliverance
     8848   worldliness

John 18:36-37

     2215   Christ, Son of David
     2312   Christ, as king
     5366   king
     5369   kingship, divine

John 18:36-40

     2585   Christ, trial

Library
March 24 Evening
God hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.--I THES. 2:12. My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, . . . but now is my kingdom not from hence.--Expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.--Thou hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.--I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

November 23 Evening
My kingdom is not of this world.--JOHN 18:36. This man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth expecting till his enemies may be made his footstool.--Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. He must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.--He raised him from the dead, and set
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

Jesus Before Caiaphas
'And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest. But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of this Man's disciples? He saith, I am not. And the servants and officers stood there,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: St. John Chaps. XV to XXI

Art Thou a King?
'Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover. Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this Man? They answered and said unto him, If He were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered Him up unto thee. Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye Him, and judge Him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: St. John Chaps. XV to XXI

Christ and his Captors
'As soon then as He had said unto them, I am He, they went backward, and fell to the ground. Then asked He them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus answered, I have told you that I am He: if therefore ye seek Me, let these go their way: That the saying might he fulfilled, which He spake, Of them which Thou gayest Me have I lost none.'--JOHN xviii. 6-9. This remarkable incident is narrated by John only. It fits in with the purpose which he himself tells us governed his selection
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: St. John Chaps. XV to XXI

Calvary: victory. Matthew 26:47-27:61. Mark 14: 43-15:47. Luke 22:47-23:56. John 18:1-19:42.
Yielding to Arrest: the betrayal--protecting the disciples--checking Peter's violence--the arrest--the disciples forsake Him--except two, John 18:15, 16. The Real Jewish Ruler: Annas the intriguer--an unrebuked insult--the case settled at once--before Caiaphas--difficulty in fixing a charge--the dramatic question and solemn answer--second condemnation--gross insults. Held Steady by Great Love: Peter gains entrance through John, John 18:16.--the stammering denial--the bolder--with oaths and
S. D. Gordon—Quiet Talks about Jesus

Kingship.
Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king! To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth: every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.--John xviii. 37. Pilate asks Jesus if he is a king. The question is called forth by what the Lord had just said concerning his kingdom, closing with the statement that it was not of this world. He now answers Pilate that he is a king indeed, but shows him that his kingdom
George MacDonald—Unspoken Sermons

First Stage of Jewish Trial. Examination by Annas.
(Friday Before Dawn.) ^D John XVIII. 12-14, 19-23. ^d 12 So the band and the chief captain, and the officers of the Jews, seized Jesus and bound him, 13 and led him to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. [For confusion in the priesthood, etc., see pp. 64 and 528.] 14 Now Caiaphas was he that gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people. [See p. 528. John restates this fact to remind the reader that Jesus was about
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Thursday Night - Before Annas and Caiaphas - Peter and Jesus.
IT was not a long way that they led the bound Christ. Probably through the same gate by which He had gone forth with His disciples after the Paschal Supper, up to where, on the slope between the Upper City and the Tyropoeon, stood the well-known Palace of Annas. There were no idle saunterers in the streets of Jerusalem at that late hour, and the tramp of the Roman guard must have been too often heard to startle sleepers, or to lead to the inquiry why that glare of lamps and torches, and Who was the
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Shadow of Death
196. Of the garden of Gethsemane it is only known that it was across the Kidron, on the slope of the Mount of Olives. Tradition has long pointed to an enclosure some fifty yards beyond the bridge that crosses the ravine on the road leading eastward from St. Stephen's gate. Most students feel that this is too near the city and the highway for the place of retreat chosen by Jesus. Archaeologically and sentimentally the identification of places connected with the life of Jesus is of great interest.
Rush Rhees—The Life of Jesus of Nazareth

A Review and a Challenge
The Social Principles of Jesus Demand Personal Allegiance and Social Action DAILY READINGS First Day: The Social Mission of Christians Ye are the salt of the earth.... Ye are the light of the world.--Matt. 5:13, 14. "Jesus speaks here with the consciousness of an historic mission to the whole of humanity. Yet it was a Nazarene carpenter speaking to a group of Galilean peasants and fishermen. Under the circumstances, and at the time, it was an utterance of the most daring faith--faith in himself,
Walter Rauschenbusch—The Social Principles of Jesus

The Arrest.
"When Jesus had spoken these words, He went forth with His disciples over the brook Kidron, where was a garden, into the which He entered, Himself and His disciples. Now Judas also, which betrayed Him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with His disciples. Judas then, having received the band of soldiers, and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. Jesus therefore, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went
Marcus Dods—The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St John, Vol. II

Peter's Denial and Repentance.
"So the band and the chief captain, and the officers of the Jews, seized Jesus and bound Him, and led Him to Annas first; for he was father-in-law to Caiaphas, which was high priest that year. Now Caiaphas was he which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people. And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Now that disciple was known unto the high priest, and entered in with Jesus into the court of the high priest; but Peter was standing
Marcus Dods—The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St John, Vol. II

Jesus Before Pilate.
"They led Jesus therefore from Caiaphas into the palace: and it was early; and they themselves entered not into the palace, that they might not be defiled, but might eat the Passover. Pilate therefore went out unto them, and saith, What accusation bring ye against this man? They answered and said unto him, If this man were not an evil-doer, we should not have delivered Him up unto thee. Pilate therefore said unto them, Take Him yourselves, and judge Him according to your law. The Jews said unto him,
Marcus Dods—The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St John, Vol. II

Comparison Between the False Church and the True.
1. Recapitulation of the matters treated in the previous chapter. Substance of the present chapter--viz. Where lying and falsehood prevail, no Church exists. There is falsehood wherever the pure doctrine of Christ is not in vigour. 2. This falsehood prevails under the Papacy. Hence the Papacy is not a Church. Still the Papists extol their own Church, and charge those who dissent from it with heresy and schism. They attempt to defend their vaunting by the name of personal succession. A succession
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

The Arrest of Jesus
Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye? They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.--Now he that betrayed him
Richard Newton—The Life of Jesus Christ for the Young

The Betrayal.
Leaving the Upper Room, Jesus and his disciples went out into the moonlit night, for there was full moon at the passover, and took their way through the streets out of the eastern gate, across the Kedron, to the garden of Gethsemane, about a half mile from the city walls, near the western base of Mt. Olivet. The Garden, or orchard, takes its name from a word meaning oil press, and doubtless was shaded by the olive trees, from which the hill takes its designation. Still the traveler meets on this
B.W. Johnson—The New Testament Commentary Vol. III: John

The Trial Before the High Priest.
"Reading the Gospels side by side, we will, with care and study, see how all they tell us falls accurately into its proper position in the general narrative, and shows us a six-fold trial, a quadruple decision, a triple acquittal, a twice repeated condemnation of Christ our Lord. We soon perceive that of the three successive trials which our Lord underwent at the hands of the Jews, the first only--that before Annas--is related to us by John; the second--that before Caiaphas--by Matthew and Mark;
B.W. Johnson—The New Testament Commentary Vol. III: John

Christ Before Pilate.
John only gives the detailed account of the private examinations of Jesus by Pilate during the civil trial recorded in 18:33-37. He probably went within Pilate's palace as he would not be deterred by the scruples of the Jews, having eaten his passover, and he was therefore a personal witness. His account aids much in explaining Pilate's language to the Jews and to Christ, which is recorded in the other Gospels. The trial before Pilate divides itself into the following acts: 1. Without the Prætorium.
B.W. Johnson—The New Testament Commentary Vol. III: John

Messiah Despised, and Rejected of Men
He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrow, and acquainted with grief. T he heathen moralists, ignorant of the character and perfections of God, the true dignity and immorality of the soul, and the root and extent of human depravity, had no better foundation, for what they call virtue, than pride; no higher aim in their regulations, than the interests of society, and the conduct of civil life. They expressed, indeed, occasionally, some sentiments of a superior kind; but these, however just
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

Messiah Rising from the Dead
For Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. T hat the Gospel is a divine revelation may be summarily proved from the character of its Author. If an infidel was so far divested of prejudice and prepossession, as to read the history of Jesus Christ, recorded by the Evangelists, with attention, and in order to form his judgment of it, simply and candidly, as evidence should appear; I think he must observe many particulars in his spirit and conduct,
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

The Greatest Trial on Record
Brethren, as the Lord gave commandment concerning even the ashes and offal of the sacrifices, we ought to think no matter trivial which stands in connection with our great burnt offering. My admonition is, "Gather up the fragments which remain, that nothing be lost." As goldsmiths sweep their shops, to save even the filings of the gold, so every word of Jesus should be treasured up as very precious. But, indeed, the narrative to which I invite you is not unimportant. Things which were purposed of
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 9: 1863

Of the Matters to be Considered in the Councils.
Let us now consider the matters which should be treated in the councils, and with which popes, cardinals, bishops, and all learned men should occupy themselves day and night, if they loved Christ and His Church. But if they do not do so, the people at large and the temporal powers must do so, without considering the thunders of their excommunications. For an unjust excommunication is better than ten just absolutions, and an unjust absolution is worse than ten just excommunications. Therefore let
Martin Luther—First Principles of the Reformation

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