The nineteenth chapter of the book of John starts with “Pilate then took Jesus and scourged Him,” and it ends with, “they laid Jesus there.” It’s a moving story of the crucifixion of an innocent teacher - remember, the people involved didn’t know about the resurrection yet.

In the middle of the chapter, Pilate asks the Jews, “Shall I crucify your King?” (John 19:15). I think their response is chilling.

We have no king but Caesar.

We have no king but Caesar. Something tells me they aren’t getting off easy for that one. But that’s the state of all of our lives. I have no king but my career. I have no king but my pickup truck. I have no king but my perfect abs. I have no king but my laziness. I have no king but my marriage. I have no king but politics.

Do borderline offensive bumper stickers reflect Christ as your King? Do two people who don’t hold each other accountable reflect Christ as their King? Does disdain for less physically fit people reflect Christ as your King? Does spending Saturday in front of the TV with a six pack reflect Christ as your King? Does “investing” in a lift kit and cool looking tires reflect Christ as your King? Does skipping Bible study every other week to get a few more hours in at the office reflect Christ as your King?

Who has authority in your life? Is it your King? Am I handing Christ over to be crucified?