The title "King of Kings" is one of the most exalted titles attributed to Jesus Christ, signifying His supreme authority and sovereignty over all earthly and heavenly rulers. This title is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and is a testament to Christ's ultimate dominion and power.

Biblical References

The title "King of Kings" is prominently featured in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Revelation. Revelation 17:14 declares, "They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with Him will be His called, chosen, and faithful followers." This passage highlights the ultimate victory of Christ over all opposition, underscoring His unparalleled authority.

Further, Revelation 19:16 states, "And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS." This vivid imagery portrays Christ as the triumphant warrior and ruler, whose reign is unchallenged and eternal.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The concept of a supreme king is not new to the New Testament but is foreshadowed in the Old Testament. The title "King of Kings" was used in ancient times to describe the greatest of earthly monarchs, such as Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon (Daniel 2:37). However, these earthly kings were mere shadows of the true King of Kings, who was to come in the person of Jesus Christ.

The prophetic literature of the Old Testament anticipates a messianic king who would reign with justice and righteousness. Isaiah 9:6-7 speaks of a child to be born, "and the government will be upon His shoulders," and He will be called "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." His reign is described as one of endless peace and justice, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

Theological Significance

The title "King of Kings" affirms the divinity and preeminence of Christ. It emphasizes His role as the sovereign ruler over all creation, both visible and invisible. This title assures believers of Christ's ultimate control over the affairs of the world and His ability to bring about His divine purposes.

In the context of the early church, the title served as a powerful reminder of Christ's authority in a world dominated by Roman emperors and earthly powers. It provided hope and encouragement to Christians facing persecution, affirming that their allegiance to Christ was allegiance to the highest authority.

Christ's Kingdom

The kingdom over which Christ reigns is both a present reality and a future hope. In His earthly ministry, Jesus proclaimed the coming of the Kingdom of God, inviting all to enter through repentance and faith (Mark 1:15). His resurrection and ascension inaugurated His reign, and He continues to rule in the hearts of believers and through His church.

The full manifestation of Christ as King of Kings will be realized at His second coming, when He will establish His eternal kingdom, bringing justice and peace to all creation. As Philippians 2:9-11 declares, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Conclusion

The title "King of Kings" encapsulates the majesty, authority, and eternal reign of Jesus Christ. It is a profound declaration of His divine kingship and a source of hope and assurance for believers throughout the ages.1 Timothy 6:15
Which in his times he shall show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 17:14
These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Names and Titles of Christ. From Several Scriptures.
... 6,6,6,6,8,8 The names and titles of Christ. From several scriptures. With cheerful
voice I sing. The titles of my Lord,. And borrow all the names. ...
/.../watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/hymn 148 the names and.htm

The Names and Titles of Christ. From Several Scriptures.
... From several scriptures. LM The names and titles of Christ. From several scriptures.
['Tis from the treasures of his word. I borrow titles for my Lord; ...
/.../watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/hymn 147 the names and.htm

The Names and Titles of Christ, from Several Scriptures.
... Hymns. Book 1. Hymn 1:147. The names and titles of Christ, from several scriptures.
1 ['Tis from the treasures of his word I borrow titles for my Lord? ...
/.../watts/hymns and spiritual songs/hymn 0 14375 the names and.htm

On the Various Names and Titles
... V. On the Various Names and Titles. ... The virgin is the church or the holy souls; in
the apostle: for I have pledged to show you to Christ, as a pure virgin ...
/.../eucherius/the formulae of st eucherius of lyons/v on the various names.htm

That Worthy Name.
... Only Christ can give joy and comfort, peace and rest to ... think of some of the familiar
titles and names of that ... How these titles of our blessed Lord, what He is ...
//christianbookshelf.org/gaebelein/the lord of glory/that worthy name.htm

The Revelation and Career of the Anti-Christ.
... contrast between Christ and the Anti-christ in their several names and titles but
the ... and none shall help him." Here we are told the Anti-christ will be a ...
/.../pink/the redeemers return/4 the revelation and career.htm

The Man of the Earth
... Names And Titles of the ... He will be a king of kings and lord of lords, (Rev.13:7).
When the true Christ appeared on earth Satan offered Him "all the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the antichrist/7 the man of the.htm

The Name Above Every Name
... alone hundreds of times, whilst in combination with any other of the titles it is ...
first with one and then with the other of the two names that we ... Christ is Lord ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/the name above every name.htm

There are Various Figures in the Old Testament of the Wood of the ...
... persons obtained from Him their share in the names of kings and anointed: just as
He Himself received from the Father the titles of King, and Christ, and Priest ...
/.../chapter lxxxvi there are various figures.htm

And V the Kingdom Undivided and the Kingdom Divided
... NOTE."To be recited, but not recorded save the titles and references ... NOTE."Name in
a sentence, opposite the names given, a fact illustrating ... What of Christ? ...
/.../palmer/a birds-eye view of the bible/iv and v the kingdom.htm

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