God's Word For Today

Daily Devotional

More than a Claim

Read John 19:17–24

Jesus had suffered unimaginable grief, and this after He had spent His life representing the Father to the world. His miracles, His teachings, and everything about Him pointed to the loving God Who had sent Him to save the world. Now it was time.

After a sham of a trial, He was now hanging on a cross between two criminals, just as though He, too, was a criminal. But, something was different about that middle cross.

Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews (John 19:19).

The enemies of Jesus were not happy with this designation. They wanted it to state that He “claimed to be king of the Jews” (John 19:21). However, Pilate had, perhaps inadvertently, written a true statement, and he had written it in three languages. No one in the immediate vicinity could be mistaken about what the notice said.

Jesus was, and is, the King of the entire universe—past, present, and future—despite those who do not believe. Have you recognized Him as your King? Are you proclaiming that truth to everyone around you?

Challenge for Today: Instead of making decisions on personal comfort, seek the next obedient steps.

Quicklook: John 19:17–20