November 23, 2025
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TEXT: Luke 23:35-43
TOPIC: Jesus is the King of Kings
SERMON SUMMARY:
The King of Kings: A Terrifying and Comforting Truth
Today, on Christ the King Sunday, I find myself reflecting on one of my favorite verses from Isaiah 9:6: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder." As we begin our Advent series on the names of Jesus, this title—King of Kings and Lord of Lords—feels both urgent and necessary for our times.
The Book of Revelation presents Jesus in two powerful ways: as the rightful ruler of the world and as the destroyer of all powers that oppose him. It's a terrifying image for those who rebel against God, yet deeply comforting for Christians facing the injustices and chaos of our world.
Here's what strikes me most: Jesus didn't seize this authority—it was conferred on him by the Father because he deserved it. He was the faithful witness who declared God's truth even unto death. Because of his faithfulness, God raised him as the firstborn of the dead and made him ruler over all kings.
Looking at our world today—wars, political upheaval, economic turmoil—it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But God's message to all earthly rulers is clear: be reconciled with Christ or face judgment. There is no neutral ground.
For those of us who belong to Jesus, this is our great comfort. Whatever tribulation we must endure, we are called, chosen, and faithful—sharing in His ultimate victory. The government truly rests on His shoulder, and that truth should fill us with hope as we pray for our leaders and await His return.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION:
How does viewing Jesus as "King of Kings" change your perspective on current world events and the conflicts you see around you?
In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on earthly rulers or powers rather than trusting in Christ's ultimate authority?
Who are the leaders in your life (political, economic, or otherwise) that you need to commit to praying for, that they would recognize Christ as the true King?
Ordained in the Anglican Church more than 20 years ago, The Very Reverend Rob Holman has led congregations in New York and Los Angeles with sound biblical preaching, prayerful discernment, and trained organizational management skills. Besides his role as Rector of St. Luke’s Anglican Church in Montrose, CA, Fr. Rob is also Dean of the Greater Los Angeles Deanery in the ACNA’s Diocese of Western Anglicans. During his tenure in Los Angeles, he has run Kingdom Conferences for the Diocese and been a speaker at the Deanery’s annual Next Steps in Mission training day. Fr. Rob received his Master of Divinity at Trinity School for Ministry in Ambridge, PA and is a graduate of the University of Virginia (BS Engineering '87 and MBA '91).
For over a century, the congregation of St. Luke’s has followed Jesus Christ through ancient forms of worship and spiritual growth presented in a contemporary style. St. Luke’s celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024. The original building, made of stones from the local mountains, still stands on Foothill Blvd in La Crescenta—though the Anglican congregation has moved to a new building just a few blocks away near downtown Montrose. Retaining its biblically faithful foundation and liturgically rich worship service through the move, this long-standing Los Angeles church also carries on a tradition of warm welcome for newcomers. St. Luke’s is part of the Diocese of Western Anglicans, Anglican Church in North America, and the Global Anglican Communion. We invite you to join us online or in person this Sunday!
