John 18:27-40

“My kingdom is not of this world.  If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting …” (v36).  Peter used his sword in the garden, and Jesus rebuked him (v10-11); this victory would not come by violence.  Jesus told Pilate that “for this purpose I was born … to bear witness to the truth” (v37).  The truth is that Jesus revealed God’s kingdom: powerful and gentle, humble and divine, holy and merciful.  Some rejoiced at this truth, others, like the religious authorities, rejected it (v19,20,28).

“Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice” (v37).  Jesus offers truth and life, but we must give up our worldly views of “kingdom” to hear his voice.