Jesus Crowned as King: A Hidden Victory During His Trial
Introduction
In the Gospels, we read about Jesus’ trial and the mockery that surrounded Him. He was mocked as a king, given a crown of thorns, a purple robe, and even a reed as a scepter. But hidden within this mockery was the profound truth that Jesus was indeed being crowned as King, not just of the Jews but of all creation. Satan, thinking he had defeated Jesus, was unaware of the hidden victory unfolding right before him. This moment in Jesus’ trial reveals a deeper spiritual truth that points to His ultimate kingship and victory over darkness.
Scripture Reference: John 19:2-3
"The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on His head. They clothed Him in a purple robe and went up to Him again and again, saying, 'Hail, king of the Jews!' And they slapped Him in the face."
Jesus’ Trial: The Moment of Mockery
1. The Mocking of a King
- During His trial, Jesus was mocked as a king. The Roman soldiers placed a crown of thorns on His head, a robe on His back, and a reed in His hand. They struck Him, spat on Him, and mocked Him with the words, "Hail, king of the Jews!" To them, this was nothing more than a cruel joke. But to God, this was the very moment when Jesus was crowned in a hidden and profound way.
- Scripture Reference: "Then they knelt in front of Him and mocked Him. 'Hail, king of the Jews!' they said." (Matthew 27:29)
2. The Crown of Thorns: A Symbol of Authority
- The crown of thorns, while meant as a mockery, held deep symbolism. Thorns, which first appeared after the fall of man as part of the curse (Genesis 3:18), were placed on Jesus’ head. This signified that He was taking upon Himself the curse of humanity. The very thing that represented the fallen world was now being transformed into a crown of victory. Satan, who thought this was a moment of defeat, couldn’t see the hidden coronation of Jesus as King of kings.
- Scripture Reference: "Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you." (Genesis 3:17-18)
Hidden Victory: Jesus Crowned in the Midst of Trial
1. Jesus’ Kingship Was Hidden from Satan
- Satan believed he had triumphed. He had led the religious leaders and the Roman authorities to crucify the Son of God. But in reality, Satan’s plan was backfiring. Jesus’ kingship was being declared in a hidden way, veiled in mockery and suffering. The cross, which Satan thought was his victory, would soon become his greatest defeat.
- Scripture Reference: "None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (1 Corinthians 2:8)
2. The Purple Robe: A Symbol of Royalty
- The soldiers placed a purple robe on Jesus, symbolizing royalty. Though they did this in mockery, it was a divine symbol of Jesus’ true kingship. He was not only the King of the Jews but the King of the universe. This act, meant to humiliate Him, instead proclaimed His true identity, though it was hidden from the eyes of His tormentors and from Satan himself.
- Scripture Reference: "And they clothed Him in a purple robe, and they came up to Him saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!'" (John 19:2-3)
The Ultimate Victory Over Satan
1. The Cross as Jesus’ Throne
- What appeared to be the moment of Jesus’ greatest humiliation was, in fact, the moment of His coronation. The cross, which was a symbol of shame, became His throne of victory. Jesus was enthroned as King over death, sin, and Satan. The very instrument of torture was turned into a symbol of His reign.
- Scripture Reference: "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself." (John 12:32)
2. Jesus as King of Kings
- In the mockery, Satan thought he had won, but in reality, Jesus was being declared as King. Jesus' kingship was not earthly or temporary—it was eternal. His victory over death and the grave was sealed in His resurrection, and His reign continues forever. Satan’s plan had failed. The crown of thorns became the crown of eternal victory.
- Scripture Reference: "On His robe and on His thigh He has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS." (Revelation 19:16)
Application for Our Lives
1. Trust in God’s Hidden Victory
- Just as Jesus’ victory was hidden in the midst of His trial, there are times in our lives when God’s plan may seem hidden. But we can trust that even when we face trials, God is working for our ultimate good and His glory. What may seem like defeat can be transformed into victory in the hands of our King.
- Scripture Reference: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
2. Declare Jesus as King
- We are called to recognize Jesus as the King of our lives. He is not only the King who was crowned during His trial but the King who reigns over all. In our daily lives, we must submit to His authority, knowing that His reign brings life, freedom, and victory over darkness.
- Scripture Reference: "The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all." (Psalm 103:19)
Conclusion
The trial of Jesus, which appeared to be a moment of humiliation, was in fact the moment of His coronation. Hidden from Satan and the world, Jesus was crowned as King of kings. The cross was His throne, and His victory over sin and death was sealed in His resurrection. As we reflect on this hidden victory, let us declare Jesus as the King of our lives, trusting that His reign brings eternal hope and salvation.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, we acknowledge You as the true King of kings. Thank You for the hidden victory You achieved on the cross. Help us to trust in Your reign and submit to Your authority in all things. In Your name, we pray. Amen.
Comments