“Jesus answered, My kingdom (kingship, royal power) belongs not to this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My followers would have been fighting to keep Me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, My kingdom is not from here (this world); [it has no such origin or source].”
John 18:36 AMPC
Wow, this brought me new awareness and perspective. I often wondered why devout Jewish people (generally) don’t believe in Jesus, and that He is the Son of God.
His kingdom is not of this world, that’s why we are called to not deal with worldly issues in worldly ways… ie fighting to keep jesus from being handed over…. It was the Jews who wanted him killed … he was messing up there good thing.
Whenever “man’s wealth or power are threatened, If they are of the world, they will look to fight or silence those who threaten them.
Think of politicians who have huge salaries and perks… CEO’s, Kings, Queens, Leaders of University’s, Hollywood, Churches who have gone astray…. Movements like Black Lives Matter LBGT… all are trapped in the world and its trappings.
I could go on …. What is your perspective?
Many of the Jews were acting out of fear. Thank back to when you had a fear that overwhelmed you did you not do things that were out of character for you. The Romans had almost absolute power over the Jews so the religious leaders of that day did all they could to keep any rebellioins down that may draw attention to them. It wasn't unusual for a king to kill anyuone, even family that may threaten their throne. So yes the relitions leadere leved well and had all they needed and it came from those who were poor or with less means anyway. Not all of the religous leaders lived high but that did have it easier as long as they did all they could to keep Rome satisfied. They feared loss of power and if it got to bad possibly loss of their positions or maybe even the loss of their lives. A lot of fear and they poassed it along to those who were less knowledgable. Not everyone had access to the texts. That is why people lioke Nciodemous and other leaders came to believe in Jesus they were after the truch not willing to believe what had been poassed down for generations. We are talking 2000 years okf beliefs not something you can turn around quickly unless the person God is tugging at really wants to know. When I read about the manners and customs of this time I can see how the fear kept them from seeking truth.
Great insight Russell … fear can lead one down a dark path