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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My kingdom is not of this world - It is purely spiritual and Divine. If it had been of a secular nature, then my servants would have contended - they would have opposed force with force, as the kingdoms of this world do in their wars; but as my kingdom as not of this world, therefore no resistance has been made. Eusebius relates, Hist. Eccles. lib. iii. c. 20, that "The relatives of our Lord were brought before Domitian, and interrogated whether they were of the family of David; and what sort the kingdom of Christ was, and where it would appear? They answered, that this kingdom was neither of this world, nor of an earthly nature; that it was altogether heavenly and angelical; and that it would not take place till the end of the world."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world--He does not say "not over," but "not of this world"--that is, in its origin and nature; therefore "no such kingdom as need give thee or thy master the least alarm." if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews--"A very convincing argument; for if His servants did not fight to prevent their King from being delivered up to His enemies, much less would they use force for the establishment of His kingdom" [WEBSTER and WILKINSON]. but now--but the fact is. is my kingdom not from hence--Our Lord only says whence His kingdom is not--first simply affirming it, next giving proof of it, then reaffirming it. This was all that Pilate had to do with. The positive nature of His kingdom He would not obtrude upon one who was as little able to comprehend it, as entitled officially to information about it. (It is worthy of notice that the "MY," which occurs four times in this one verse--thrice of His kingdom, and once of His servants--is put in the emphatic form).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Jesus answered, my kingdom is not of this world,.... By saying which, he tacitly owns he was a king: as such he was set up, and anointed by his Father from everlasting; was prophesied of in the Old Testament; declared by the angel, both when he brought the news of his conception, and of his birth; was owned by many, who knew him to be so in the days of his flesh; and since his resurrection, ascension, and session at God's right hand, more manifestly appears to be one: he also hereby declares, that he had a kingdom; by which he means, not his natural and universal kingdom, as God, and the Creator and Governor of all things; but his mediatorial kingdom, administered both in the days of his flesh, and after his resurrection; which includes the whole Gospel dispensation, Christ's visible church state on earth, and the whole election of grace; it takes in that which will be at the close of time, in the latter day, which will be more spiritual, and in which Christ will reign before his ancients gloriously; and also the kingdom of God, or of heaven, even the ultimate glory: the whole of which is not of this world; the subjects of Christ's kingdom are not of the world, they are chosen and called out of it; the kingdom itself does not appear in worldly pomp and splendour, nor is it supported by worldly force, nor administered by worldly laws; nor does it so much regard the outward, as the inward estates of men; it promises no worldly emoluments, or temporal rewards. Christ does not say it is not "in" this world, but it is not of it; and therefore will not fail, when this world does, and the kingdoms thereof. Every thing that is carnal, sensual, and worldly, must be removed from our conceptions of Christ's kingdom, here or hereafter: and to this agrees what some Jewish writers say of the Messiah, and his affairs; "the Messiah (they say (o)) is separated from the world, because he is absolutely intellectual; but the world is corporeal; how then should the Messiah be in this world, when the world is corporeal, and , "the business of the Messiah is divine, and not corporeal?"'' And since this was the case, Caesar, or any civil government, had no reason to be uneasy on account of his being a king, and having a kingdom; since his kingdom and interests did not in the least break in upon, or injure any others: and that this was the nature of his kingdom, he proves by the following reason; if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight that I should not be delivered to the Jews: if Christ's kingdom had been a worldly one, set up on worldly views, and governed with worldly policy, and was to answer some worldly ends, Christ would have had servants enough among the Jews, who would have declared for him, and took up arms in his favour against the Romans; his own disciples would not have suffered him to have been betrayed into the hands of the Jews by Judas; nor would he have hindered them from attempting his rescue, as he did Peter; nor would they suffer him now to be delivered by Pilate into their hands, to put him to death; since they had such a Prince at the head of them, who, was he to make use of his power, was able to drive all the Roman forces before them out of the nation, and oblige a general submission among the Jews, to the sceptre of his kingdom: but now is my kingdom not from hence; it does not rise out of, nor proceed upon, nor is it supported by worldly principles, wherefore none of the above methods are made use of. (o) R. Juda Bezaleel Nizeach Israel, fol. 48.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
18:36-37 Jesus was willing to accept the title of king, but he made it clear that he did not govern an earthly kingdom that might rival Rome. Jesus’ kingship is not of this world. Rather than being a political ruler, he rules through the devotion and obedience of his followers.
Jesus before Pilate
35“Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed You over to me. What have You done?”36Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world; if it were, My servants would fight to prevent My arrest by the Jews. But now My kingdom is not of this realm.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Christian in This World
By Vance Havner5.3K30:28Holy CharacterMAT 6:33JHN 17:6JHN 18:36ROM 12:22CO 6:17PHP 3:201JN 2:15In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of attending an old-fashioned Methodist camp meeting where they were singing and praising God. He highlights the importance of gravitating towards what truly lures us and where we belong in our hearts. The speaker explains the difference between the world that God loves, which refers to lost souls, and the world that we are warned not to love, which refers to the sinful aspects of the world. He emphasizes that as Christians, we have been saved out of the world to go back into the world and win people over to Christ. The main message is that our purpose in this world is to be a light in the darkness and to tell the world goodbye, leaving behind everything that is wrong.
The Kingdom of God - Part 1
By B.H. Clendennen4.8K09:45MAT 5:14MAT 6:10MAT 12:28JHN 3:3JHN 18:361CO 4:202CO 5:17EPH 2:8COL 1:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of being born again to truly experience the kingdom of God. It highlights the need for a genuine transformation where Christ is birthed in individuals, leading to a desire to be in God's presence and a deep understanding of the fall and redemption. The message stresses that Christianity is not about religious rituals but about having a personal relationship with Christ and living in His kingdom of light and power.
Midrash - Messiah, Son of Joseph-David
By Jacob Prasch2.7K12:25MidrashDAN 9:26JHN 18:36ROM 11:26REV 20:4In this sermon, Dr. Pat addresses the reasons why many Jewish people, including rabbis, struggle to accept Jesus as the Messiah. He acknowledges the history of persecution and violence committed in the name of Christianity, which has caused skepticism among the Jewish community. However, Dr. Pat emphasizes that Jesus himself was Jewish and loved the Jewish people. He urges his Jewish friends to consider the prophecies and teachings about the Messiah, highlighting the concept of two Messiahs: the Son of Joseph and the Son of David. Dr. Pat concludes by urging his audience to receive Jesus as the Messiah for all people, both in Israel and the nations.
Freedom From This World System
By Zac Poonen1.5K57:10JHN 18:36ROM 12:2GAL 1:4PHP 3:17This sermon emphasizes the need to break free from the cages of sin, legalism, and the world system that hinder spiritual growth. It highlights the importance of aligning our values with God's Word, avoiding conformity to worldly standards, and focusing on glorifying God in all aspects of life.
Anabaptist History (Day 10) Growth and Persecution of the Swiss Brethren
By Dean Taylor1.3K1:21:49MAT 5:10JHN 18:36ROM 12:21CO 3:16GAL 5:16HEB 4:12JAS 4:81PE 4:162PE 1:4This sermon reflects on the persecution faced by men and women of God throughout history, emphasizing the importance of not judging movements or individuals but seeking to glorify God. It delves into historical events where Anabaptists were hunted and killed, highlighting the impact of conscience and divine authority in such situations. The message urges listeners to examine their hearts, avoid carnal behaviors, and strive to be filled with the presence of Jesus Christ.
What Does It Mean to Be Born Again and How to Know?
By Alan Barr1.2K31:05Born AgainMAT 6:33JHN 18:36ACT 16:31ROM 7:15ROM 10:9EPH 6:111PE 5:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being born again and the longing for our true home in heaven. He emphasizes that one proof of being born again is the longing for home and the sense of being a stranger in this world. The preacher urges listeners to examine their lives and see if there is evidence of these four things: conviction of sin, ability to repent, belief in Jesus' sacrifice, and offering oneself to God. He also highlights the importance of experiencing a spiritual battle between wanting to please God and the pull of the world. The sermon concludes with an encouragement to seek God's salvation and surrender to Him.
The Tragedy of Departing From the Heavenly Vision
By B.H. Clendennen1.1K27:14MAT 6:24JHN 15:19JHN 17:21JHN 18:36JHN 20:212CO 6:14EPH 1:221JN 2:15REV 21:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of the Church as seen by God, highlighting the tragic consequences of departing from the heavenly vision. It explores the contrast between the heavenly vision of Christ and the earthliness that can infiltrate the Church, leading to spiritual blindness, division, and a departure from God's intended purpose. The call is for the Church to return to its heavenly vision, rejecting earthly influences and embracing the fullness of the Holy Spirit for a true outpouring.
The Coming King
By Chuck Smith1.1K37:27PSA 132:11EZK 34:23AMO 9:11HAB 1:2LUK 1:32JHN 15:18JHN 18:36REV 19:1REV 22:20This sermon delves into Revelation 19, highlighting the worship in heaven, the anticipation of the marriage of the Lamb, and the ultimate reign of Jesus Christ as King of kings and Lord of lords. It contrasts the fallen earthly monarchies with the promised eternal kingdom of God, emphasizing the need for individuals to choose to live under the righteous rule of Jesus. The message underscores the current state of the world under Satan's influence and the hope for the future when Jesus will establish His kingdom of light and peace.
A Change of Allegiance - Part 2
By Dean Taylor65440:03MAT 5:44JHN 18:36ROM 12:22CO 10:3EPH 6:12PHP 3:20COL 3:2JAS 4:41JN 2:15This sermon delves into the concept of the two kingdoms, exploring the shift from the Old Testament to the New Testament in relation to war, government, and Christian principles. It emphasizes the need to prioritize the teachings of Jesus, the kingdom of God, and the way of Christ over worldly politics and patriotism. The importance of living out the words of Jesus and being faithful ambassadors of the kingdom of God is highlighted.
Christ on the Throne
By Rolfe Barnard41552:29ChristMAT 5:43MAT 6:33LUK 5:27LUK 19:1JHN 18:36ROM 5:81CO 16:22In this sermon, the preacher talks about the story of Jesus calling Peter, James, and John to follow him. He emphasizes that Jesus, although fully human, was without sin and demonstrated his lordship through his actions. The preacher also mentions the encounter between Jesus and Pilate, where Jesus affirms his kingship. He then discusses the importance of love for Jesus, stating that it will be the occupation of heaven and that faith in Jesus is not alone but includes repentance and confession through one's actions.
The Word Must Precede the Work
By Oswald Chambers1MAT 6:6LUK 17:21JHN 18:361CO 3:6COL 2:7Oswald Chambers preaches about the danger of being consumed by worldly systems that prioritize endless activities over cultivating a private life with God. He emphasizes the importance of the hidden, inner relationship with God, rather than public displays of busyness. Chambers urges Christians to rid themselves of the spirit of the religious age and focus on soaking in the fundamental truths of God's Redemption to remain steadfast in faith when faced with unexpected challenges.
Christ and Caesar
By James Blaine Chapman1MAT 5:44MAT 7:24MRK 10:45JHN 14:6JHN 16:32JHN 18:361CO 13:132CO 4:18REV 21:1James Blaine Chapman preaches about the victory of Jesus over the world, contrasting the kingdoms of Caesar and Christ. Despite the odds stacked against Him, Jesus declared triumph in the face of imminent defeat, emphasizing that His kingdom was founded on truth, love, service, and eternity. Chapman encourages believers to follow Jesus' example and build their lives on these foundational principles to secure victory in the battles of life.
The Kingdom Now
By Anton Bosch0MAT 1:21MAT 21:9LUK 19:10JHN 6:14JHN 18:36ACT 1:8ACT 9:5ROM 8:29ROM 11:36Anton Bosch discusses the people's desire for material provision and political reform during Jesus' time, highlighting the danger of appealing to people's felt needs and imposing our agenda on God. He emphasizes that God's timing and intentions are sovereign, and any attempt to rush His plan is rebellion. Jesus' Kingdom is not physical but spiritual, and salvation is from sins, not political or material. Bosch urges the church to align with God's purposes and stop trying to manipulate God for selfish gain.
How the Church Flourishes
By C.H. Spurgeon0Independence of the ChurchThe Power of TruthPSA 127:1ISA 55:11MAT 16:18JHN 18:36ACT 5:29ROM 1:161CO 1:27EPH 6:122TI 2:191PE 2:9C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that the church flourishes when it relies solely on God's truth, independent of worldly powers or influences. He warns against the dangers of aligning the church with civil authority, as this can corrupt its mission and dilute its message. Spurgeon asserts that God's truth is powerful enough to prevail on its own, and that the church should be led by those who embody righteousness rather than those who wield earthly power. He encourages believers to trust in God's mysterious ways to accomplish His purposes without human interference.
What Is the Position of a True Believer in Regard to the Nations?
By H.J. Vine0JHN 18:36ROM 13:11TI 2:1REV 5:10H.J. Vine preaches about the threefold position of the believer in relation to the nations: 1. In Christ, the believer is above the nations, destined to share in Christ's future reign. 2. As part of God's house, the believer intercedes for rulers, praying for all nations. 3. As one of God's people, the believer is subject to national authorities, awaiting the return of Christ from heaven.
Different Phases of the One Fact
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Kingdom of GodSpiritual TransformationMAT 4:17MAT 5:3MAT 5:10MAT 6:10MAT 6:33MAT 10:7MAT 12:28LUK 10:9JHN 3:3JHN 18:36G. Campbell Morgan explores the multifaceted nature of the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that it requires a transformative entrance through spiritual rebirth, as highlighted in Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus. He articulates that the Kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope, where believers are called to live out its principles and responsibilities. Morgan underscores the necessity of personal transformation, the communal responsibility of believers, and the ultimate establishment of God's Kingdom through divine processes culminating in a crisis. He encourages the congregation to reflect on their personal relationship with the Kingdom and their role in its manifestation in the world.
Politicians in the Pulpit
By Anton Bosch0JHN 18:36Anton Bosch addresses the controversial issue of churches aligning with politicians, highlighting the dangers of blurring the lines between church and state. Drawing from biblical examples, he emphasizes that Jesus and Paul did not endorse secular rulers but called them to repent and believe in the Lord. The sermon delves into prophecies from Revelation, warning against the false religious system that aligns with earthly kingdoms and persecutes the true church. Bosch urges Christians to remain faithful to Jesus, emphasizing the clear distinction between light and darkness in such alliances.
Transformed to His Nature
By A.B. Simpson0Living Like ChristTransformationJHN 1:4JHN 5:39JHN 18:362CO 3:182CO 4:7GAL 2:20HEB 6:202PE 1:41JN 2:6A.B. Simpson reflects on a personal experience of feeling helpless when his car broke down, leading him to contemplate how Jesus would respond to such inconveniences. He emphasizes that true spirituality goes beyond mere obedience to the Bible, highlighting that the New Covenant calls us to partake in the nature of Christ rather than adhere to legalistic rules. Simpson asserts that Jesus is our model for living, demonstrating humility, love, and obedience, and that through the Holy Spirit, we are transformed into His likeness as we seek Him daily. He encourages believers to measure their lives against Christ's example, allowing Him to live through them, resulting in true godliness. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper relationship with Jesus, where His life is reflected in ours.
Why This Present Life?
By Ernest O'Neill0PRO 3:5JHN 14:26JHN 18:361CO 12:27EPH 2:10EPH 5:1COL 1:15COL 1:171TH 5:16JAS 1:5Ernest O'Neill delves into the purpose of life and the existence of suffering, emphasizing that our current world is a reflection of life without God. He highlights Jesus as the image of the invisible God and explains that our purpose is to live in Christ for good works. O'Neill stresses the importance of living a life that reflects Jesus, showcasing the contrast between God's life and our godless one. He challenges listeners to let the life of Jesus impact the world through them, demonstrating an other-worldly way of living that focuses on God's will.
The Catholic Church
By J.H. Newman0ISA 54:17JHN 18:36EPH 6:12JAS 2:11PE 5:8J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of defending the rights of the Church against political interference, emphasizing the duty of clergy to speak out against injustices and threats to spiritual matters. He highlights the significance of the One Catholic and Apostolic Church as an existing society appointed by Christ, and the necessity of believing in its continuity for salvation. Newman urges the congregation to protest against infringements on ecclesiastical rights, to keep a vigilant eye on governmental actions, and to boldly defend the Church's position to prevent its potential destruction.
Christ Is Still King
By David Wilkerson0Christ's AuthorityThe Lordship of JesusPSA 121:1ISA 9:6MAT 28:18JHN 18:36ROM 14:11EPH 1:22PHP 2:9COL 1:161TI 6:15REV 19:16David Wilkerson emphasizes that Christ is still King over all nations and nature, despite the apparent chaos and rejection of His authority in society and the Church. He highlights the alarming trend of Christians and churches turning away from Christ's lordship and relying on worldly wisdom instead. Wilkerson urges believers to recognize the importance of enthroning Christ in their hearts, as the consequences of dethroning Him lead to spiritual decline. He reminds us that God has placed all things under Jesus' feet, and we must acknowledge His sovereignty in our lives. The call to action is clear: put Christ back on the throne of your heart and live in His power.
Two Kingdoms
By Oswald Chambers0MAT 5:3JHN 3:3JHN 18:362CO 7:10EPH 6:13Oswald Chambers emphasizes the importance of personal devotion to Jesus Christ over worldly activities, highlighting the need for a deep, private relationship with God rather than just outward displays of Christian work. He stresses the significance of seeking God's Kingdom first, trusting in His provision, and focusing on spiritual truths rather than worldly concerns. Chambers delves into the necessity of repentance, conviction of sin, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. He also discusses the radical nature of being born again, the purity required by God, and the continual renewal and dependence on God for spiritual life.
The Gifts of God Not to Be Rejected on Account of the Channel That Brings Them.
By Francois Fenelon0MAT 6:19JHN 18:362CO 5:20EPH 2:6PHP 3:17PHP 3:20COL 1:131TH 4:16REV 1:7The preacher delves into the concept of citizenship in the Bible, emphasizing that Christians are citizens of a heavenly kingdom, distinct from the earthly realm, and under the authority of a new Ruler with different standards. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are delivered from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of God's beloved Son. The sermon highlights the responsibilities and privileges of heavenly citizenship, urging believers to live in a manner that reflects their heavenly status and eagerly await the return of the Savior, Jesus Christ.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Slabler! - Part 1
By Leonard Verduin0MAT 5:39LUK 14:23JHN 18:362CO 3:17GAL 5:1Leonard Verduin delves into the historical context of the Constantinian change, highlighting the introduction of coercion into the Church's affairs and the subsequent loss of voluntaryism in the cause of Christ. He explores the resistance of the 'heretics' who advocated for voluntaryism and opposed coercionism, symbolized by carrying harmless staffs. Verduin contrasts the ideologies of coercionism versus voluntaryism, tracing the roots of this theological debate from early times through the Reformation era. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the Church's transition from a voluntary association to a mass held together by the symbol of coercion, shedding light on the struggles faced by Reformers in choosing between 'Christian sacralism' and the rebellion against it.
The Sixth Commandment
By A.W. Pink0MurderAnger ManagementGEN 9:6EXO 20:13DEU 19:21PRO 13:10LUK 3:14LUK 7:8JHN 8:44JHN 18:36EPH 4:261JN 3:12A.W. Pink expounds on the Sixth Commandment, 'Thou shalt not kill,' emphasizing that it not only forbids murder but also the underlying emotions such as anger and hatred that can lead to it. He illustrates how the commandment serves to protect the sanctity of life and the well-being of individuals, warning against the dangers of envy and rash anger. Pink highlights that lawful actions, such as capital punishment and just wars, do not violate this commandment, while also addressing the grave sin of suicide as self-murder. He concludes with practical advice on managing anger and cultivating a humble spirit to prevent the escalation of harmful emotions. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of the commandment's implications for personal conduct and community relations.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
My kingdom is not of this world - It is purely spiritual and Divine. If it had been of a secular nature, then my servants would have contended - they would have opposed force with force, as the kingdoms of this world do in their wars; but as my kingdom as not of this world, therefore no resistance has been made. Eusebius relates, Hist. Eccles. lib. iii. c. 20, that "The relatives of our Lord were brought before Domitian, and interrogated whether they were of the family of David; and what sort the kingdom of Christ was, and where it would appear? They answered, that this kingdom was neither of this world, nor of an earthly nature; that it was altogether heavenly and angelical; and that it would not take place till the end of the world."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world--He does not say "not over," but "not of this world"--that is, in its origin and nature; therefore "no such kingdom as need give thee or thy master the least alarm." if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews--"A very convincing argument; for if His servants did not fight to prevent their King from being delivered up to His enemies, much less would they use force for the establishment of His kingdom" [WEBSTER and WILKINSON]. but now--but the fact is. is my kingdom not from hence--Our Lord only says whence His kingdom is not--first simply affirming it, next giving proof of it, then reaffirming it. This was all that Pilate had to do with. The positive nature of His kingdom He would not obtrude upon one who was as little able to comprehend it, as entitled officially to information about it. (It is worthy of notice that the "MY," which occurs four times in this one verse--thrice of His kingdom, and once of His servants--is put in the emphatic form).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Jesus answered, my kingdom is not of this world,.... By saying which, he tacitly owns he was a king: as such he was set up, and anointed by his Father from everlasting; was prophesied of in the Old Testament; declared by the angel, both when he brought the news of his conception, and of his birth; was owned by many, who knew him to be so in the days of his flesh; and since his resurrection, ascension, and session at God's right hand, more manifestly appears to be one: he also hereby declares, that he had a kingdom; by which he means, not his natural and universal kingdom, as God, and the Creator and Governor of all things; but his mediatorial kingdom, administered both in the days of his flesh, and after his resurrection; which includes the whole Gospel dispensation, Christ's visible church state on earth, and the whole election of grace; it takes in that which will be at the close of time, in the latter day, which will be more spiritual, and in which Christ will reign before his ancients gloriously; and also the kingdom of God, or of heaven, even the ultimate glory: the whole of which is not of this world; the subjects of Christ's kingdom are not of the world, they are chosen and called out of it; the kingdom itself does not appear in worldly pomp and splendour, nor is it supported by worldly force, nor administered by worldly laws; nor does it so much regard the outward, as the inward estates of men; it promises no worldly emoluments, or temporal rewards. Christ does not say it is not "in" this world, but it is not of it; and therefore will not fail, when this world does, and the kingdoms thereof. Every thing that is carnal, sensual, and worldly, must be removed from our conceptions of Christ's kingdom, here or hereafter: and to this agrees what some Jewish writers say of the Messiah, and his affairs; "the Messiah (they say (o)) is separated from the world, because he is absolutely intellectual; but the world is corporeal; how then should the Messiah be in this world, when the world is corporeal, and , "the business of the Messiah is divine, and not corporeal?"'' And since this was the case, Caesar, or any civil government, had no reason to be uneasy on account of his being a king, and having a kingdom; since his kingdom and interests did not in the least break in upon, or injure any others: and that this was the nature of his kingdom, he proves by the following reason; if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight that I should not be delivered to the Jews: if Christ's kingdom had been a worldly one, set up on worldly views, and governed with worldly policy, and was to answer some worldly ends, Christ would have had servants enough among the Jews, who would have declared for him, and took up arms in his favour against the Romans; his own disciples would not have suffered him to have been betrayed into the hands of the Jews by Judas; nor would he have hindered them from attempting his rescue, as he did Peter; nor would they suffer him now to be delivered by Pilate into their hands, to put him to death; since they had such a Prince at the head of them, who, was he to make use of his power, was able to drive all the Roman forces before them out of the nation, and oblige a general submission among the Jews, to the sceptre of his kingdom: but now is my kingdom not from hence; it does not rise out of, nor proceed upon, nor is it supported by worldly principles, wherefore none of the above methods are made use of. (o) R. Juda Bezaleel Nizeach Israel, fol. 48.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
18:36-37 Jesus was willing to accept the title of king, but he made it clear that he did not govern an earthly kingdom that might rival Rome. Jesus’ kingship is not of this world. Rather than being a political ruler, he rules through the devotion and obedience of his followers.