Each year, as the liturgical calendar draws to a close, Christians around the world observe Christ the King Sunday. This significant day calls us to reflect on the sovereignty of Jesus Christ and His rule over all creation. Established by Pope Pius XI in 1925 through the encyclical Quas Primas, the observance arose as a response to the growing secularism and nationalism of the early 20th century. Today, it continues to serve as a profound reminder that Christ reigns above all earthly powers and authorities.
Christ the King in Scripture
The theme of Christ’s kingship is woven throughout Scripture. In Revelation 19:16, Jesus is proclaimed as “King of kings and Lord of lords,” affirming His ultimate authority. Similarly, John 18:36 highlights the nature of His reign: “My kingdom is not from this world.” These passages remind us that Christ’s kingship transcends political and earthly power structures, embodying a reign of justice, love, and peace.
The Apostle Paul also emphasized Christ’s preeminence in his writings, particularly in Colossians 1:15-20, where he declares that “in Him all things were created” and that “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” This cosmic vision of Christ as sovereign sustains the church’s understanding of His authority over all creation.
Theological Foundations
Theologically, Christ the King Sunday aligns with Christian eschatology, focusing on the ultimate fulfillment of God’s kingdom. As noted by theologian George Eldon Ladd, Christ’s kingship represents both a present reality and a future hope. In The Presence of the Future, Ladd describes the kingdom of God as “already here” through Christ’s life and ministry but “not yet” fully realized until His return.
This duality invites believers to live under Christ’s reign now while anticipating the day when His sovereignty will be universally acknowledged. Scholar N.T. Wright, in How God Became King, reinforces this understanding, stating that “Jesus’ resurrection and ascension declare Him to be the true Lord of the world, even when the world does not yet recognize it.”
A United Methodist Perspective
Within the United Methodist Church, Christ the King Sunday serves as a bridge between the end of the liturgical year and the beginning of Advent. It invites reflection on the lordship of Christ while preparing hearts for His coming. John Wesley’s theology strongly emphasized the kingship of Christ as central to Christian discipleship. His covenant prayer—“I am no longer my own, but thine”—captures the essence of surrendering to Christ’s authority.
The United Methodist Hymnal reflects this theme through hymns such as “Jesus Shall Reign” and “Crown Him with Many Crowns.” These songs remind worshippers of the majesty and universal scope of Christ’s kingdom.
Why It Matters Today
In a world rife with division and competing loyalties, Christ the King Sunday offers a timely reminder of where our ultimate allegiance lies. As Stanley Hauerwas and William H. Willimon argue in Resident Aliens, the church is called to embody an alternative community that reflects the values of Christ’s kingdom—justice, mercy, and peace. Observing this day challenges Christians to reject the idols of power and materialism and instead live as citizens of God’s eternal reign.
Going Deeper
To fully engage with the significance of Christ the King Sunday, consider the following resources:
Scripture for Reflection: Revelation 19:11-16; John 18:33-37; Colossians 1:15-20.
Books:
George Eldon Ladd, The Presence of the Future (Eerdmans, 1974).
N.T. Wright, How God Became King (HarperOne, 2012).
Stanley Hauerwas and William H. Willimon, Resident Aliens (Abingdon Press, 1989).
Hymns: “Jesus Shall Reign” (#157) and “Crown Him with Many Crowns” (#327) in The United Methodist Hymnal.
This Christ the King Sunday, may we proclaim boldly that “Jesus is Lord” and live as faithful witnesses to His eternal kingdom.
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