John 19:12-15

Who is Your King?

Introduction:

In our affluent society we look around and see a nation seemingly prosperous and wealthy, a nation of plenty. We ask is it possible to serve God and riches and the same time? According to King Jesus, it is not possible to serve both.  Matt.6:24

The Psalmist gives us a great perspective on this when he says in Psalm 24:1 “The earth is the Lord’s and all it contains…and those who dwell in it.” This indicates His Sovereign Divine right over His Entire creation. Therefore we are to focus upon the King of Glory.  “Lift up your heads, O gates and be lifted up, O ancient doors that the King of glory may come in!” (Psa. 24:7)

I. NO KING BUT CAESAR

A. Christ was crucified in spite of Pilate’s efforts to release Him – Eph. 1:3,7

B. John’s reference to time  - v.14

1. Is there a problem with John’s time and Mark’s? (Mark 15:25)

2. No one in antiquity had Timex watches.

3. The day was divided into four portions.

4. When time is mentioned it is generalized – “nearly” or “about”

5. No discrepancy between John and Mark – (Gordon Keddie’s comment)

C. Pilate’s Irony

1.  “Behold your King.”

2.  “ Shall I crucify your King?”

                  D. The Chief Priest Responds

                        1.  “We have no King but Caesar”

                        2.  Jewish hypocrisy and foolishness – I Cor.2:7,8

                  E.  Demanding a King

                        1.  Not learning from history

                        2.  Israel’s history – Samuel and King Saul- ( I Sam.8:6,7)

                        3.  The nation of Israel horrible judgment – Turn to: Luke 21:20-24;

                             Luke 23:26-31

II. NO KING BUT CHRIST

A. The verdict is in:

1. Jewish -  v.15 cf. Rom. 11:25-29

2. Gentiles – Psalm 2:1-3; 4-5

B. America, One Nation under God

1. Our pledge of allegiance

2. Government structures –

3. Checks and Balances – (Legislative, Judicial and Executive)

C. The purpose of Government

1. It is to establish righteousness – Prov. 16:12; 25:5

2. It is to punish evil doers – I Pet. 2:13-17; Rom.13:1-7

3. It is to defend its people – Zech. 12:8; II Kings 19:34; 20:6; Prov.31:9; Isa.37:35

Conclusion:

1. Will God defend America like Jerusalem?

2. Do we say we have no God but Government? Prov. 14:34

Pastor Nick Iamaio

Reformed Presbyterian Church

207 South First Street, Fulton, NY 13069

Web Site fultonrpc.org

11/18/2007