The concept of kingship in the Bible is deeply intertwined with the divine authority and the covenantal relationship between God and His chosen leaders. However, the mockery of kingship is a recurring theme that highlights human rebellion against God's ordained order and the rejection of His anointed ones. This theme is most poignantly illustrated in the treatment of Jesus Christ during His Passion, but it also appears in various forms throughout the biblical narrative.

Old Testament Instances

In the Old Testament, the mockery of kingship can be seen in the attitudes and actions of those who opposed God's chosen leaders. For example, David, anointed by God to be king over Israel, faced mockery and disdain from his own family and others. When David went to the battlefield to deliver provisions to his brothers, his eldest brother Eliab mocked him, questioning his motives and belittling his responsibilities (1 Samuel 17:28).

Another instance is found in the account of King Saul, who, despite being the first king of Israel, faced mockery from some of the people. After Saul was anointed by Samuel and publicly chosen by lot, some "worthless men" questioned his ability to save them and despised him, bringing him no gifts (1 Samuel 10:27).

New Testament Fulfillment

The mockery of kingship reaches its climax in the New Testament with the Passion of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the true King and Messiah, was subjected to severe mockery by both the Roman soldiers and the Jewish leaders. This mockery was not only a personal affront but also a profound theological statement about the rejection of God's ultimate King.

In the Gospel of Matthew, the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the Praetorium, gathered the whole company around Him, and stripped Him. They put a scarlet robe on Him, twisted together a crown of thorns, and set it on His head. They placed a staff in His right hand and knelt before Him in mockery, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" (Matthew 27:28-29). This act of mockery was a cruel parody of the royal homage due to a king, highlighting the soldiers' scorn and the world's rejection of Christ's kingship.

Similarly, in the Gospel of Mark, the chief priests and scribes mocked Jesus as He hung on the cross, saying, "He saved others, but He cannot save Himself! Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross, so that we may see and believe" (Mark 15:31-32). This taunt was a direct challenge to Jesus' identity and mission, reflecting the disbelief and hardness of heart of those who refused to recognize Him as the promised King.

Theological Implications

The mockery of kingship in the Bible serves as a stark reminder of humanity's tendency to reject God's authority and the leaders He appoints. It underscores the spiritual blindness and pride that lead individuals and nations to scorn what they do not understand or accept. In the case of Jesus, the mockery He endured was part of His redemptive suffering, fulfilling the prophecies of the Suffering Servant and demonstrating His humility and obedience to the Father's will.

This theme also calls believers to recognize and honor the true Kingship of Christ, who, despite being mocked and rejected, triumphed over sin and death through His resurrection. It challenges Christians to live in submission to His authority and to proclaim His reign in a world that often continues to mock and reject Him.