Nov 1

Matthew 1:1-17

Memorise 1 Timothy 1:17
“Now unto the King eternal… be honour and glory for ever…”

The book of Matthew refers to Jesus as the “son of David” 9 times. Wise men from the east referred to Him as “King of the Jews”. In Matthew 1:1- 2, Jesus is introduced as the Son of David, and His lineage is then traced Jesus’ lineage can be traced back through the royal line of Judah. Indeed, Jesus Christ is presented in Matthew as King. He came in fulfilment of the divine prophecy that there would be this future descendant of King David, the Messiah, who would sit upon the throne and establish His  kingdom.

Do not be mistaken that Jesus was only the King of the Jews during the time of His earthly ministry. He did not simply assume this identity and position of glory, honour and authority when He condescended to become human only to relinquish it upon His ascension. Jesus is King to Jews  and Gentiles for eternity. This is seen in many other verses throughout the Bible. 1 Timothy 1:17 says, “Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever.” From this passage we see that not only is Jesus identified as the King eternal and immortal, but also that the honour and glory due to Him as King is due to Him forever.

In Revelation 19:16, Jesus returns in power and glory to judge the world with “KING OF KINGS” and “LORD OF LORDS” written on His vesture and thigh. This is in contrast to the cruel mocking of the meek sacrificial Lamb that Jesus was at the time of His crucifixion when His tormentors wrote on His cross “THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS” (Matthew 27:37). God made sure that even in Jesus’ darkest moments on earth, his tormentors identified Him as such (albeit mockingly).

Anyone can declare that Jesus is King. The unbeliever may make this declaration with the same sarcastic, scornful and resentful attitude as those who mocked Him. But tothe believer, Jesus is his Saviour King without Whom life would not only be meaningless but would eventually lead to an eternity of pain and suffering. As you read through the Gospel of Matthew, ask yourself if you want to be one of those who called Him King and yet hated Him, or one of those who loved Him and wept for Him. Whichever one you really are will be reflected by the way you live your life today.

Thought: How thankful I am that Jesus is not only King, but also a loving Friend and Saviour Who knows me intimately.
Prayer: Forgive us, O Lord, in times when we have not honoured Jesus even as Jesus forgave His mockers while hanging on the cross.