- Home
- Bible
- John
- Chapter 18
- Verse 18
John 18:37
Verse
Context
Jesus before Pilate
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.” 37“Then You are a king!” Pilate said. “You say that I am a king,” Jesus answered. “For this reason I was born and have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to My voice.”
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Thou sayest - A common form of expression for, yes, it is so. I was born into the world that I might set up and maintain a spiritual government: but this government is established in and by truth. All that love truth, hear my voice and attend to the spiritual doctrines I preach. It is by truth alone that I influence the minds and govern the manners of my subjects.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Art thou a king then?--There was no sarcasm or disdain in this question (as THOLUCK, ALFORD, and others, allege), else our Lord's answer would have been different. Putting emphasis upon "thou," his question betrays a mixture of surprise and uneasiness, partly at the possibility of there being, after all, something dangerous under the claim, and partly from a certain awe which our Lord's demeanor probably struck into him. Thou sayest that I am a king--It is even so. To this end was I--"have I been." born and for this cause came I--am I come. into the world, that I may bear witness to the truth--His birth expresses His manhood; His coming into the world, His existence before assuming humanity: The truth, then, here affirmed, though Pilate would catch little of it, was that His Incarnation was expressly in order to the assumption of Royalty in our nature. Yet, instead of saying, He came to be a King, which is His meaning, He says He came to testify to the truth. Why this? Because, in such circumstances it required a noble courage not to flinch from His royal claims; and our Lord, conscious that He was putting forth that courage, gives a turn to His confession expressive of it. It is to this that Paul alludes, in those remarkable words to Timothy: "I charge thee before God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who, in the presence of Pontius Pilate, witnessed the good confession" (Ti1 6:13). This one act of our Lord's life, His courageous witness-bearing before the governor, was selected as an encouraging example of the fidelity which Timothy ought to display. As the Lord (says OLSHAUSEN beautifully) owned Himself the Son of God before the most exalted theocratic council, so He confessed His regal dignity in presence of the representative of the highest political authority on earth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice--Our Lord here not only affirms that His word had in it a self-evidencing, self-recommending power, but gently insinuated the true secret of the growth and grandeur of His kingdom--as A KINGDOM OF TRUTH, in its highest sense, into which all souls who have learned to live and count all things but loss for the truth are, by a most heavenly attraction, drawn as into their proper element; THE KING of whom Jesus is, fetching them in and ruling them by His captivating power over their hearts.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Pilate therefore said unto him,.... Upon this free and full declaration of Christ, concerning his kingly office, and the nature of his kingdom: art thou a king then? or thou art a king then: for, from his having a kingdom, it might be very justly inferred that he was a king: Jesus answered, thou sayest that I am a king; and which was very rightly said; and Christ by these words owns and confesses, that he was one: adding, to this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. The end of Christ's being born, which was of a virgin, in a very miraculous manner, and of his coming into the world, which was by the assumption of human nature, among many other things, was to bear testimony to truth in general; to the whole Gospel, the word of truth, and every branch of it, which he brought with him, constantly preached in life, and confirmed by his death; and particularly to this truth, that he was a King, and had a kingdom in a spiritual sense: everyone that is of the truth; that is of God, belongs to the sheep of Christ, knows the truth as it is in Jesus, and is on the side of truth, and stands by it: heareth my voice; the voice of his Gospel; and that not only externally, but internally; so as to approve of it, rejoice at it, and distinguish it; and the voice of his commands, so as cheerfully to obey them from a principle of love to him.
John 18:37
Jesus before Pilate
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.” 37“Then You are a king!” Pilate said. “You say that I am a king,” Jesus answered. “For this reason I was born and have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to My voice.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
K-284 the Anatomy of Cross Evasion
By Art Katz2.4K1:06:03Cross of ChristJHN 8:32JHN 14:6JHN 18:371CO 10:142CO 11:13GAL 6:7EPH 4:14In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the spectacle and drama of processions and celebrations that should have been condemned. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the whole truth of God, rather than offering only partial views. The speaker challenges the notion of reducing Jesus to a great teacher and suggests that man has modified and controlled the truth to serve his own purposes. The sermon also explores the concept of the Trinity and the importance of replicating the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the church. The speaker concludes by highlighting the significance of the cross as the ultimate demonstration of God's nature and the implications that come with embracing it.
Jesus, the King of Truth
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K53:40MAT 2:2JHN 1:14JHN 5:39JHN 6:35JHN 8:32JHN 14:6JHN 18:37In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his own experiences as a soldier in a spiritual battle. He encourages the congregation to be strong in the Lord and live for Him, so as to avoid regrets in the future. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of testifying for Jesus and bearing witness to the truth in one's own sphere of influence. Lastly, he highlights the superlative dignity of Christ as a king and the necessity of His coming into the world to establish His kingdom through the proclamation of truth.
Where Is He Born King of the Jews
By Gareth Evans1.3K36:52Birth Of JesusISA 9:6MAT 2:2MAT 6:33MAT 21:5LUK 2:9JHN 18:37PHP 2:5In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the lack of honor given to God in various aspects of society, such as the law courts, higher education, and the marketplace. He emphasizes that true disciples of God are built by the King himself, not by these worldly institutions. The speaker also highlights the humility and sacrifice of Jesus, who left his heavenly glory to enter the sinful world. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about a young man facing difficulties with his vehicle, illustrating the importance of relying on God in times of trouble.
The Revelation
By Paris Reidhead1.0K47:14RevelationMAT 6:33JHN 18:37ACT 20:352TI 3:16REV 1:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God with power and conviction. He describes a time when preachers were bold and unafraid to speak about the righteousness of God and the seriousness of sin. The speaker also highlights the need for individuals to come before God, repent of their sins, and accept Jesus Christ as their savior. He encourages believers to be faithful witnesses to Jesus and shares that Jesus, as the first begotten of the dead, is the prince of the kings of the earth. The speaker concludes by discussing the revelation given by God to Jesus and how Jesus, in turn, shares this revelation with his servants.
(Christ Formed) 02 - Christ as for Us
By Ed Miller9961:03:57LUK 9:32LUK 19:10JHN 18:37EPH 5:13HEB 2:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for a true understanding of the Bible. He highlights that the Bible is not a record of everything, but rather a record of Jesus and salvation. The speaker provides various verses that explain why Jesus came to earth, such as to seek and save the lost, testify to the truth, and put away sin through his sacrifice. He also emphasizes the progressive revelation of Jesus in the 30 years leading up to his ministry, showing his growth and maturation.
How to Ignite a Heart of Worship
By Shane Idleman85152:08JHN 1:14JHN 4:23JHN 8:32JHN 14:6JHN 18:37EPH 4:151TI 3:152TI 4:31JN 1:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of igniting a heart of worship by embracing both the spirit and truth. It highlights the struggle against the flesh to worship authentically and the necessity of surrendering to God's truth. The speaker delves into the significance of living in alignment with God's character and the essential nature of the cross and resurrection in true worship.
(Pdf Book) From Ridicule to Respect
By Sister Joela54800:00Church and Israel RelationsEbooksJewish Identity of JesusRUT 1:16MAT 5:10MAT 10:23MAT 23:39MAT 24:9LUK 22:70LUK 23:3JHN 18:31JHN 18:37REV 22:16Sister Joela emphasizes the need for the Church to acknowledge and respect Jesus' Jewish identity, moving from a history of ridicule to one of reverence. She highlights the significance of Jesus' trial under Pontius Pilate, where political expediency led to His condemnation, and calls for Christians to embrace their Jewish roots and stand against historical persecution. Joela urges believers to actively participate in restoring the relationship between Christians and Jews, recognizing Jesus as both the Son of God and the King of the Jews. She concludes with a call to prepare for Jesus' return, emphasizing the importance of humility and service in this mission.
Every Christian a Witness
By T.T. Shields0JHN 18:37ACT 1:8ACT 9:6ACT 9:15ROM 1:14ROM 8:211CO 1:18EPH 1:72TI 4:7T.T. Shields preaches on the solemn obligation of every believer to be a witness for Jesus Christ, emphasizing the debt we owe to Him for His redeeming love and the need to share the gospel with all people. Using the Apostle Paul as an example, he highlights the passion and dedication required to fulfill this obligation, stressing that effective witnessing stems from a deep personal relationship with Jesus. Shields encourages dedicating all our natural powers and developing our latent abilities to serve the Lord, reminding us that even our smallest efforts, when surrendered to God, can lead to great victories in His name.
Now Then Do It
By Theodore Epp0Christ's KingshipSpiritual Progress2SA 3:12SA 3:18PSA 47:7MAT 28:18JHN 18:37ROM 10:91CO 15:57COL 1:13HEB 6:1REV 19:16Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of making Christ the king of our lives, drawing parallels between David's anointing and Christ's role as the anointed one. He highlights how David's patience and waiting on the Lord led to his eventual crowning, and encourages believers to take action by fully accepting Christ's kingship. Epp points out that while Christ's redemptive work is complete, the Holy Spirit's work in us is ongoing, urging us to progress in our faith. The call to 'Now then do it' serves as a reminder to actively choose to follow Christ and deepen our relationship with Him.
The Cross and the Tongue
By Jessie Penn-Lewis0Spiritual MaturityThe Power of WordsJER 15:19JHN 18:372CO 2:4EPH 4:14PHP 3:15PHP 3:18COL 1:28COL 4:12JAS 3:22PE 2:1Jessie Penn-Lewis emphasizes the critical relationship between our words and our spiritual maturity, particularly in the context of speaking about those who oppose the Cross of Christ. She highlights that true identification with Christ is reflected in our ability to control our speech, as stumbling in words reveals immaturity. The sermon calls for believers to speak the truth in love, especially when addressing the enemies of the Cross, and to maintain a spirit of compassion and weeping for those who have strayed. Penn-Lewis warns that our power in prayer and spiritual authority is compromised when we engage in unloving speech, urging believers to remain hidden in Christ to avoid the strife of tongues. Ultimately, she encourages a life that bears witness to the truth of God, ensuring our words are life-giving and aligned with His will.
Crowns
By H.J. Vine0JHN 16:13JHN 18:372CO 5:6PHP 4:11TH 2:192TI 4:81PE 5:4REV 2:10REV 19:12H.J. Vine preaches about the various crowns mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing different aspects of faith and rewards in Christ. The Holy Spirit guides believers towards heavenly wisdom, encouraging them to press forward towards the incorruptible crowns that await them in the presence of the glorified Lord. The significance of Christ's crown of thorns is highlighted, emphasizing the inseparable connection between His sufferings and our redemption. The sermon delves into the hereditary and won crowns, illustrating how believers share in Christ's glory and are promised crowns of life, glory, righteousness, and rejoicing.
Nicolaitanism - the Rise and Growth of the Clergy
By F.W. Grant0JHN 4:24JHN 10:27JHN 18:37ACT 20:281CO 12:42CO 4:2GAL 1:111TI 3:12TI 2:2REV 2:6F.W. Grant delves into the issue of Nicolaitanism, highlighting the danger of clerisy and the rise of a spiritual caste within the Church. He emphasizes the departure from truth and the establishment of a worldly Church under Satan's influence, leading to the subjection of the laity by a privileged clergy class. Grant challenges the traditional concept of ordination, stressing that spiritual authority should come from God's Word and individual gifting, not human authorization. He calls for a return to the true essence of ministry, where every believer is a minister and priest, responsible for contributing to the body of Christ and ministering to one another in love.
Kingship
By George MacDonald0PSA 86:11JHN 8:32JHN 10:27JHN 14:6JHN 18:37George MacDonald preaches about Jesus being a king who came into the world to bear witness to the truth, emphasizing that his kingdom is not of this world and his kingship is defined by his essential being and the truth he embodies. Jesus' kingship is about every man being a king in a kingdom where all are of the truth and hear his voice. He contrasts the principles of hell with the truth he represents, highlighting that true freedom and individuality come from aligning one's will with God's will. The sermon underscores the importance of standing up as a true man, speaking the truth, and being willing to die but not lie, echoing Jesus' ultimate witness on the cross.
Truth Triumphant!
By Miles J. Stanford0JHN 14:6JHN 16:13JHN 18:372CO 6:41JN 4:6Miles J. Stanford emphasizes the importance of maintaining divine truth in Christianity, highlighting the need for zeal for the purity of God's truth to match the zeal for the salvation of sinners. He warns against accommodating falsehoods and emphasizes that true love according to God upholds the truth, especially in the last days where the test of truth is the maintenance of it. Stanford stresses that the Holy Spirit, who pours the love of God into our hearts, is the Spirit of truth, and His role is to glorify Christ.
The Life of Christ, for Family Devotions - November
By F. L. Mortimer0MAT 27:24LUK 18:13LUK 23:47JHN 18:37Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the various trials and tribulations Jesus faced before different judges, highlighting the contrast between the innocence and righteousness of Jesus and the guilt and corruption of those who judged Him. The sermon emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the truth, even in the face of opposition and injustice, and the need for genuine repentance and humility when confronted with one's own sins and failings.
Concerning Human Responsibility
By G. Campbell Morgan0Human ResponsibilityRepentance and FaithMAT 4:17JHN 6:29JHN 7:17JHN 18:37JHN 20:28G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the critical nature of human responsibility in relation to Jesus' teachings, particularly focusing on the need for repentance, belief, and obedience. He outlines Jesus' threefold method of teaching: annunciation, application, and appeal, which calls individuals to recognize their need for God's Kingdom and to act upon the truth revealed in Christ. Morgan highlights that true belief is not merely intellectual assent but a volitional act of trust in Jesus as the Savior. He stresses that repentance is the first step towards aligning oneself with God's will, followed by faith in Christ and obedience to His teachings. Ultimately, Morgan calls for a transformative response to Jesus' message, urging listeners to test His words through their actions.
Dead or Alive?
By Tom Macartney0LUK 15:24JHN 3:3JHN 5:24JHN 6:63JHN 10:27JHN 11:43JHN 18:37ROM 6:1ROM 10:17EPH 2:1COL 3:11PE 1:231JN 1:7Tom Macartney preaches on the importance of experiencing spiritual resurrection and new birth as the foundation of the Christian life. He emphasizes that true Christians have been raised from the dead and given new life by God, contrasting this with the spiritual deadness and helplessness of those who have not been born of God. Macartney highlights the necessity of God's intervention through the blood of Jesus Christ for forgiveness and the miracle of resurrection and new birth, stressing the vital role of hearing God's word and responding with saving faith. He warns against the misconception that being a Christian is merely about following Christ for personal gain, emphasizing the need for a genuine transformation and a life lived according to God's will.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Thou sayest - A common form of expression for, yes, it is so. I was born into the world that I might set up and maintain a spiritual government: but this government is established in and by truth. All that love truth, hear my voice and attend to the spiritual doctrines I preach. It is by truth alone that I influence the minds and govern the manners of my subjects.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Art thou a king then?--There was no sarcasm or disdain in this question (as THOLUCK, ALFORD, and others, allege), else our Lord's answer would have been different. Putting emphasis upon "thou," his question betrays a mixture of surprise and uneasiness, partly at the possibility of there being, after all, something dangerous under the claim, and partly from a certain awe which our Lord's demeanor probably struck into him. Thou sayest that I am a king--It is even so. To this end was I--"have I been." born and for this cause came I--am I come. into the world, that I may bear witness to the truth--His birth expresses His manhood; His coming into the world, His existence before assuming humanity: The truth, then, here affirmed, though Pilate would catch little of it, was that His Incarnation was expressly in order to the assumption of Royalty in our nature. Yet, instead of saying, He came to be a King, which is His meaning, He says He came to testify to the truth. Why this? Because, in such circumstances it required a noble courage not to flinch from His royal claims; and our Lord, conscious that He was putting forth that courage, gives a turn to His confession expressive of it. It is to this that Paul alludes, in those remarkable words to Timothy: "I charge thee before God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who, in the presence of Pontius Pilate, witnessed the good confession" (Ti1 6:13). This one act of our Lord's life, His courageous witness-bearing before the governor, was selected as an encouraging example of the fidelity which Timothy ought to display. As the Lord (says OLSHAUSEN beautifully) owned Himself the Son of God before the most exalted theocratic council, so He confessed His regal dignity in presence of the representative of the highest political authority on earth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice--Our Lord here not only affirms that His word had in it a self-evidencing, self-recommending power, but gently insinuated the true secret of the growth and grandeur of His kingdom--as A KINGDOM OF TRUTH, in its highest sense, into which all souls who have learned to live and count all things but loss for the truth are, by a most heavenly attraction, drawn as into their proper element; THE KING of whom Jesus is, fetching them in and ruling them by His captivating power over their hearts.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Pilate therefore said unto him,.... Upon this free and full declaration of Christ, concerning his kingly office, and the nature of his kingdom: art thou a king then? or thou art a king then: for, from his having a kingdom, it might be very justly inferred that he was a king: Jesus answered, thou sayest that I am a king; and which was very rightly said; and Christ by these words owns and confesses, that he was one: adding, to this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. The end of Christ's being born, which was of a virgin, in a very miraculous manner, and of his coming into the world, which was by the assumption of human nature, among many other things, was to bear testimony to truth in general; to the whole Gospel, the word of truth, and every branch of it, which he brought with him, constantly preached in life, and confirmed by his death; and particularly to this truth, that he was a King, and had a kingdom in a spiritual sense: everyone that is of the truth; that is of God, belongs to the sheep of Christ, knows the truth as it is in Jesus, and is on the side of truth, and stands by it: heareth my voice; the voice of his Gospel; and that not only externally, but internally; so as to approve of it, rejoice at it, and distinguish it; and the voice of his commands, so as cheerfully to obey them from a principle of love to him.