Definition and Nature
True kingship, as depicted in the Bible, refers to the divine and righteous rule that aligns with God's will and purposes. It is characterized by justice, righteousness, humility, and service, contrasting with the often flawed and self-serving nature of human kingship. True kingship is ultimately embodied in the person of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings, whose reign is eternal and perfect.

Old Testament Foundations
The concept of kingship in the Old Testament begins with God as the ultimate King. In 1 Samuel 8:7, God tells Samuel, "They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me as their king." This highlights the theocratic nature of Israel's original governance, where God Himself was the ruler. Human kingship was established with Saul, but it was David, a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), who exemplified the ideal king, despite his imperfections. David's reign is often seen as a foreshadowing of the Messiah's perfect kingship.

The Davidic Covenant in 2 Samuel 7:12-16 promises an everlasting kingdom through David's lineage, pointing to the future Messiah. This covenant underscores the divine nature of true kingship, which is not merely political but deeply spiritual and covenantal.

Characteristics of True Kingship
1. Righteousness and Justice: True kingship is marked by a commitment to righteousness and justice. Psalm 72:1-2 prays, "Endow the king with Your justice, O God, and the son of the king with Your righteousness. May he judge Your people with righteousness and Your afflicted with justice." This reflects the expectation that a true king will rule in accordance with God's standards.

2. Humility and Service: Unlike earthly kings who often seek power and prestige, true kingship is characterized by humility and service. In Zechariah 9:9, the prophecy of the coming king is fulfilled in Jesus, "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! See, your King comes to you, righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

3. Divine Appointment: True kingship is established by God's sovereign choice. In 1 Samuel 16:1, God instructs Samuel to anoint David as king, demonstrating that true kingship is not a result of human ambition but divine selection.

New Testament Fulfillment
The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of true kingship in Jesus Christ. He is the promised descendant of David, whose kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). Jesus' kingship is characterized by sacrificial love and ultimate authority. In Revelation 19:16, He is described as "King of kings and Lord of lords," signifying His supreme and eternal reign.

Jesus' kingship is also marked by His role as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), who lays down His life for His sheep, illustrating the servant-leadership aspect of true kingship. His authority is affirmed in Matthew 28:18, where He declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me."

The Kingdom of God
True kingship is intricately linked to the Kingdom of God, which Jesus proclaimed throughout His ministry. This kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope, characterized by God's rule in the hearts of believers and the ultimate restoration of all creation. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you."

Implications for Believers
Believers are called to recognize and submit to the true kingship of Christ, living as citizens of His kingdom. This involves embodying the values of righteousness, justice, humility, and service in their own lives, reflecting the character of their King. In doing so, they participate in the advancement of God's kingdom on earth, anticipating its full realization in the age to come.