Many world leaders think they have control or power over others. When things do not go their way, they exert their power over others to get things to go their way. This power is often exerted in an abusive manner. Such leaders think they can control events and people with their power.
While Jesus was being tried, Pilate told Him that he had power over life and death: “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?” (John 19:10). Jesus could have bowed to pressure and gave in to him. Instead, Jesus responded by challenging Pilate’s claim to power: “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above” (John 19:11). This was the truth that the Messiah wanted Pilate to know: True power comes from God.
The realisation that true power comes from God should humble us, even if we are in a position of power; a manager, a CEO, an employer, etc. We ought not to abuse our power over others. “True power comes from God” should be our dictum. We are vessels of God’s power. How we use the power given to us shows the kind of belief that we have about God; Jesus is the Servant King.
Paul was very well aware of this truth and he urged his readers to emulate Jesus’ humility. Despite Jesus “being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage” (Phil 2:6). On the contrary, He gave up His power, took “the very nature of a servant” and “humbled himself by becoming obedient to death” (Phil 2:7-8). Jesus, who had all power, gave it all up because of love.
Therefore, God exalted Jesus from a criminal’s cross “to the highest place” (Phil 2:9). Jesus could have demanded praise or compliance from us, and could have put us at His disposal (Matt 26:53). Instead, He gave up all power for our sake, winning our worship and devotion. Jesus demonstrated true greatness and power through His absolute humility.
For all honour
And blessing and power
Belongs to You belongs to You
All honour and blessing and power
Belongs to You belongs to You
Lord Jesus Christ
Son of the living God (From the song by Chris Bowater – Jesus Shall Take the Highest Honour)