The Wrong King

Two thousand years ago, Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem. This was the long awaited Savior of the world; and yet, very few people recognized His coming. Even when Jesus grew and began His ministry, most people had a difficult time believing He was the One for whom they were waiting. He just didn't seem to fit the description given by the prophets.

Isaiah 9:6-7
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever."

Isaiah told of the birth of Jesus 700 years before He was born. The people of Israel were looking for the One who would take the government on His shoulders, increase the kingdom, and bring a lasting peace (by force if necessary). They were looking for a mighty leader just like King David.

But David was God's earthly king who brought peace and unity through victories in many great battles. Jesus was the Heavenly King who came to establish peace through an entirely different method; "They will call Him Emmanuel - which means, God with us" (Matthew 1:23). In Jesus, the fullness of God came to dwell with man and offer eternal peace through repentance and mercy.

It's no wonder so many failed to recognize Him and believe. They had formed a picture of the King, and when Jesus didn't fit they just kept looking.

As our thoughts are focused on the birth of Jesus, let's not miss His true identity. He is King! But He didn't come to conquer those who mistreat us. He didn't come to grant us special privilege or even remove our daily trials. That day is yet to come! Rather, He came to deliver a message of truth: "You are right in saying I am a King. In fact, for this reason I came into the world, to testify of the truth" (John 18:37).

The truth that Jesus brings is, "Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). His truth is uncompromising; "Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already" (John 3:18). And His truth expects (and deserves) absolute dedication; "Whoever has My commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves Me" (John 14:21).

This Christmas season, let's not miss the real Jesus. He came to forgive our sin - the sin that destroys and keeps us from The Father. This Christmas, let's recognize the truth, receive His forgiveness, and live to glorify His Name. Let's never make the fatal mistake of looking for the wrong king.