“Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate,
the King of kings, and Lord of lords.”
(1 Timothy 6:15)
The recognition of Jesus as “My Lord” is far more than a mere label. It is a profession of faith that defines my life and informs my choices. Further, because the title of “Lord” is given Him by God the Father (Acts 2:36), it rightly commands my consideration and understanding.
The first truth I must realize is that acknowledging Jesus as Lord is not even possible apart from the work of the Holy Spirit in me (1 Cor. 12:3). As Nicholas Byfield said, “In this way David in spirit called him Lord, and this all the House of Israel must know (Acts 2:35-36). In Luke 2:11 he is described as “Christ the Lord,” and in Acts 10:36 he is proclaimed “Lord of all.” [Indeed], it is a title so proper to Christ, as sometimes he has no other name given him but the Lord, as 1 Cor. 6:14.”[1]
The lordship of Christ is His by five different rights. 1) He is Lord by right of Creation, for “all things were made by him,” (John 1:3), and “all things were created by him and for him,” (Col. 1:16). 2) He is Lord by right of Redemption, for He bought us with the price of His precious blood (1 Peter 1:18). 3) He is Lord by right of Preservation and Sustenance, for not only were all things created by Him, but all things also continue to be “held together” by Him (Col. 1:17). 4) He is Lord by right of Divine Ordination, “…God hath made that same Jesus, whom you have crucified, both Lord and Christ,” (Acts 2:36). And finally, 5) He is Lord by Covenant (Heb. 9:15, 13:20). As Christ paid the price for the sins of the elect in His human nature, He was rightfully ordained Lord of the New Covenant through both His divine and human natures.
Without question, the lordship of Jesus Christ is unparalleled and unchallengeable. He has no rivals or partners (1 Cor. 12:5). All other lords are subject to Him, for He is the Lord of lords and King of kings (1 Tim. 6:15, Rev. 19). His dominion is without boundaries (Acts 10:36), is everlasting (1 Tim. 6:15, 16), and His kingly glory is unapproachable (1 Tim. 6:16).
In light of all these realities, the people of God – those who call Him “Lord” – must serve Him with unwavering loyalty and faithfulness. Any obedience to earthly leaders should be subordinate to our allegiance to Christ (1 Cor. 12:5). We must diligently pursue His Will and let His Word dwell richly in us (Col. 3:16). These are not optional exercises for the believer but comprise our rightful and reasonable service and practice (Rom. 12:1).
Contemplations
- On the Fivefold Right of His Lordship: I find myself amazed at the extent to which Jesus holds His Lordship. Whether through Creation, Redemption, Sustenance, Divine Ordinance, or Covenant, His lordship is multifaceted while remaining unified in its purpose—to bring glory to God and salvation to us. Each aspect makes me reflect on the totality of His claim over my life. His is not a segmented or compartmentalized lordship; it is all-encompassing.
- On the Dual Nature of Christ: The lordship of Jesus is neither confined to His divinity nor His humanity. It encompasses both. This challenges me to interact with Him as both God and man, appreciating the fullness of His nature. He is both a holy God who understands, and a perfect man who has experienced life on earth.
- On Earthly and Heavenly Authorities: Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 12:5, I realize my loyalty to earthly leaders must always be subordinate to my loyalty to Jesus. His lordship helps me order my priorities, reminding me who the true authority in my life is.
- On Perpetual Service to the Lord: Romans 6 calls me to a life of service to Christ and righteousness. This is not a temporary commitment but an eternal covenant. This truth moves me to live in a manner that reflects my covenantal relationship with Him and pulls me toward an ever-closer relationship with Jesus, my Lord.
Further References for 1 Tim. 6:15:
Rev. 17:14; 1 Tim. 1:11; Psalm 136:3; Deut. 10:17
[1] Nicholas Byfield, The Rule of Faith, (London: G.M. for Philemon Stephens and Christopher Meredith, and are to be sold at their shop .., 1626), 240.
