Topical Encyclopedia The inscription "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews" holds significant theological and historical importance within the Christian tradition. This phrase was inscribed on the placard placed above Jesus Christ during His crucifixion, as recorded in the New Testament. The inscription is mentioned in all four Gospels, highlighting its importance in the Passion narrative.Biblical Context: The Gospel of Matthew records the inscription as follows: "Above His head they posted the written charge against Him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS" (Matthew 27:37). Similarly, the Gospel of Mark states, "And the charge inscribed against Him read: THE KING OF THE JEWS" (Mark 15:26). Luke's account provides additional detail, noting that the inscription was written in three languages: "Above Him was posted an inscription: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS" (Luke 23:38). The Gospel of John offers a more comprehensive description: "Pilate also had a notice posted on the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS" (John 19:19). Historical and Theological Significance: The inscription was ordered by Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, as a formal charge against Jesus. It was customary for the Romans to display the crime for which a person was being executed. In this case, the charge was one of claiming kingship, which was seen as a challenge to Roman authority and a potential act of sedition. From a theological perspective, the inscription is deeply significant. It serves as a public declaration of Jesus' identity and mission, albeit in a context of mockery and condemnation. For Christians, the title "King of the Jews" is not merely a political statement but a profound acknowledgment of Jesus' messianic role and His fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming of a king from the line of David. Interpretation and Reflection: The inscription, while intended as a charge, ironically affirms the truth of Jesus' kingship. It underscores the paradox of the crucifixion: the King of the universe subjected to the humiliation of the cross. This moment is pivotal in Christian theology, as it encapsulates the sacrificial love and redemptive purpose of Jesus' death. Moreover, the multilingual nature of the inscription (as noted in Luke) symbolizes the universal scope of Jesus' kingship. It was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek, the major languages of the time, indicating that Jesus' reign transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries. In conclusion, the inscription "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews" is a profound testament to the identity and mission of Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of the paradoxical nature of His kingship—a kingship characterized by humility, sacrifice, and ultimate victory over sin and death. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 27:37And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS. Nave's Topical Index Library Christ Crucified Ancient Versions of the Old Testament. The Early Years of Jesus The Shipwreck of Pilate Matthew. Appendix. The Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. Jesus at Capernaum. John the Baptist --visit of Jesus to John, and his Abode in the ... Development of the Ideas of Jesus Respecting the Kingdom of God. Place of Jesus in the History of the World. Resources Did the Bible copy some of its stories from other religious myths and legends? | GotQuestions.orgDid the Bible copy the Flood account from other myths and legends? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about dragons? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Legends (Inscriptions): "Holiness to the Lord" Engraved: On Bells of Horses, on Pots and Bowls Legends (Inscriptions): "Holiness to the Lord" Engraved: On the High Priest's Mitre Legends (Inscriptions): "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews" Legends (Inscriptions): Precepts Written on Door Posts and Gates, and Worn on the Hand and Forehead Related Terms Nebuchadrezzar (31 Occurrences) |
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