Introduction
In this study, “Jesus: King of Kings or Prince? – 1 Timothy 6:15“, we will explore the relationship between the titles given to the Father and the Son by examining passages such as 1 Timothy 6:15 and Revelation 19:16. Throughout the text, we will carefully analyze scriptures like 1 Corinthians 15:25-27, Acts 5:31, and Ezekiel 34:20-24 to understand how Jesus’ roles as Prince and King fit within the context of God’s sovereignty.
The One King of Kings and Lord of Lords
1 Timothy 6:15 – “Which in his times he will show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords“
The passage in 1 Timothy 6:15 presents the Father as the “King of kings and Lord of lords” However, when we read Revelation 19:16, we find a verse where Jesus is given the same title, as shown below:
Revelation 19:11-16 – “And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse: and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True: … And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords“
Different Interpretations of 1 Timothy 6:15
Some people interpret these two passages as referring to the same person, but a closer examination makes it clear that this interpretation is incorrect. Others believe that the Father and Jesus are two distinct persons but share the same titles because they are members of the Trinity.
Personally, I cannot agree with either of these interpretations, as several other passages do not align with these views.
Problems with This Interpretation
The same authority that the Father applies to Himself is also attributed to the Son. But how can both be called “King of kings” and “Lord of lords” if they are both kings and lords? What may seem like a contradiction is not actually one when we consider Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 15:25-27. He declares that all things have been placed under Christ’s feet but then adds: “It is clear that he who subjected all things to him is excepted“.
If Paul states that there is an exception, we must apply the same reasoning when interpreting the titles “King of kings” and “Lord of lords“. God, the One who exalted Christ to such a position, remains above Christ as His King and His Lord. On the other hand, although Christ is subject to the Father, He is still King and Lord over the entire universe.
Elevated to Prince and Savior
Two other passages help clarify this idea. The first is found in Acts 5:31, as shown below:
Acts 5:31 – “Him God exalted with His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins“.
The position granted by God to Christ before all created beings, including the Father Himself, is that of a Prince. If there is a Prince, it implies that someone above Him holds the title of King. This position belongs to the Father, as described in 1 Timothy 6:14-15.
God and His Servant “David”
The next passage that clarifies this issue is a prophecy written by the prophet Ezekiel:
Ezekiel 34:20-24 – “Therefore, thus says the Lord GOD to them: Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. Because you push with your side and with your shoulder and gore all the weak ones with your horns until you have scattered them abroad. Therefore, I will save my sheep, so they will no longer be prey, and I will judge between sheep and sheep. And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them; my servant David shall feed them; he shall be their shepherd. And I, the LORD, will be their God, and my servant David shall be prince among them; I, the LORD, have spoken it“.
It is evident that this passage does not refer to David himself, as he had been dead for nearly three centuries when the prophet wrote this message. The phrase “my servant David“ is a reference to the Messiah, who would come from David’s lineage.
The key point of this passage, in relation to our topic, is that God clearly states He will appoint His servant as the shepherd of His flock and that this servant will be the Prince among them, while the Lord (YHWH) remains their God. This passage clearly establishes the distinct roles each one occupies before the entire universe.
Conclusion: Jesus King of Kings or Prince?
We can conclude that, before all other creatures in the universe, Jesus holds the position of King and Lord-a position granted to Him by His Father. However, in relation to the Father, Jesus takes the position of Prince, as it is the Father who sits on the throne as King over the universe.
May God bless the reader.
