23 Bible Verses About Jesus as King
- Karen O'Reilly
- 6 days ago
- 14 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
From the moment Jesus stepped into history, He was no ordinary man—He was proclaimed King. Throughout the New Testament, we see this truth unfold: Jesus is King of kings, reigning with eternal authority and divine love. But this wasn’t a surprise. The Old Testament foreshadowed His kingship for centuries.
If you have been following our blog here at Scriptural Grace for a while, you will know that I am just a tiny bit passionate about the cross and God's Redemption Plan for us. He had a Blueprint right from the very beginning for our salvation!
23 Bible Verses About Jesus as King
In this post, you’ll find powerful Bible verses about Jesus as King—from the Gospels to Revelation—and discover how they beautifully connect with ancient prophecies that declared the Messiah would reign forever. We will discuss:
Christ the King in the Old Testament: prophecy fulfilled (This is my favourite part - learning how God had the perfect plan for our redemption - that's why I wrote the Bible study - 40 Days Through The Bible: Discovering God's Blueprint For Redemption!)
Let’s start in the New Testament, where His kingship is fully revealed.
Jesus as King in the Gospels
"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose
and have come to worship him."
This verse captures the words of the wise men (Magi) who traveled from the East, led by a star, in search of a newborn King. What’s remarkable is that Jesus was recognized as King from birth—not appointed, elected, or made king later in life. His kingship was divine, foretold, and acknowledged even by foreign seekers.
One Thing to Note:
The Magi didn’t ask if a king had been born—they asked where. Their certainty reminds us that God’s promises are trustworthy and His prophecies sure. The King had indeed come, and their only question was how to find Him and bow in worship.
"Say to Daughter Zion,‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’”
This verse is a direct fulfillment of the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9. It describes Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem—the moment He publicly revealed Himself as King. But instead of arriving on a warhorse, Jesus rode on a donkey, symbolizing humility, peace, and servanthood.
Jesus redefined what it means to be a king. He did not come to conquer earthly kingdoms with violence but to establish a kingdom of peace, righteousness, and salvation. This verse challenges our assumptions about strength and leadership, showing us a Savior who leads with gentleness and grace.
One Thing to Note:
Jesus intentionally chose a donkey to fulfill prophecy and reveal His nature. His kingship is not about asserting dominance but about inviting hearts to surrender. The crowds cried "Hosanna," not fully understanding that their King came to save them through sacrifice, not political revolution.
"He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever;
his kingdom will never end."
These words were spoken by the angel Gabriel to Mary, foretelling the miraculous birth of Jesus. It’s a stunning declaration: Jesus is not only Son of the Most High, but the eternal King in the royal line of David, fulfilling God’s covenant promise.
The phrase “His kingdom will never end” sets Jesus apart from every other ruler in history. Earthly kingdoms rise and fall—but Christ’s reign is unchanging, everlasting, and sovereign. This passage echoes the Old Testament hope for a Messiah-King who would restore God’s people and establish a kingdom of righteousness.
One Thing to Note:
Gabriel connects Jesus directly to David’s throne, confirming that He is the long-awaited Messianic King. But this isn’t just a Jewish hope—His kingdom extends to all who believe, and it’s not confined to borders. It’s a spiritual kingdom that lasts forever, rooted in God’s faithfulness.
"Then Nathanael declared, 'Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.'"
Nathanael’s declaration is one of the Gospels' earliest confessions of Jesus’ identity. After a brief encounter in which Jesus reveals supernatural knowledge about him, Nathanael is stunned and convinced. He doesn’t just call Jesus “Rabbi” (teacher) but boldly proclaims Him as both the Son of God and the King of Israel—a powerful combination of divine authority and royal fulfillment.
One Thing to Note:
Nathanael’s response shows that personal revelation leads to public confession. He didn’t wait for a crowd or consensus—he spoke what his heart believed.
"They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting,'Hosanna!'' Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!''Blessed is the King of Israel!'"
This verse captures the Triumphal Entry—when Jesus rode into Jerusalem and was welcomed by crowds waving palm branches and shouting praises. Their words echo Psalm 118, a messianic psalm used during Jewish festivals to declare the arrival of salvation. By shouting “Blessed is the King of Israel!”, the people publicly acknowledged Jesus as their promised King.
However, their understanding of His kingship was shaped by political hope. Many expected a Messiah who would overthrow Roman rule. But Jesus entered not as a political warrior, but as the Prince of Peace, fulfilling prophecy (Zechariah 9:9) and offering a kingdom not of this world.
One Thing to Note:
The palm branches symbolized victory and deliverance, yet within a week, the same crowds would call for His crucifixion. This verse reminds us that true worship of Jesus as King means surrendering our expectations, not just celebrating when it suits us.
Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”“You are a king, then!” said Pilate . Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”
In this dramatic exchange with Pilate, Jesus doesn’t deny that He is King—instead, He defines the nature of His kingdom. It is not earthly, violent, or political. It is heavenly, eternal, and built on truth.
Jesus stands calm and composed before Judea's most powerful Roman official, boldly declaring His purpose: to reveal truth to a world enslaved by lies.
This moment reveals that Jesus’s kingship isn’t about domination but transformation. He came to reign in hearts, not just over nations. His kingdom is one of light, truth, and peace, calling people not to rise up in arms but to listen, believe, and follow.
One Thing to Note:
Jesus’ phrase “You say that I am a king” is both an affirmation and a challenge. It invites the hearer—and us—to consider: What kind of king do we expect, and are we willing to follow the King who speaks truth, even when it’s uncomfortable? His kingdom demands allegiance not just in word, but in truthful living.
Jesus King of Kings at His Crucifixion
Even in His suffering, Jesus was still King—and the world took notice.
1. Luke 23:38
"There was a written notice above him, which read: this is the king of the jews."
This inscription was placed above Jesus as He hung on the cross—a public declaration of His supposed crime, ordered by Pilate. While meant to mock, it carried profound prophetic truth. The world saw a crucified man; heaven saw a crucified King. In irony, this sign proclaimed what many refused to believe: Jesus truly is the King of the Jews—and of all.
One Thing to Note:
The title wasn’t just meant for Jewish eyes—it was written in three languages (John 19:20 says Hebrew, Latin, and Greek), symbolizing that Jesus is King for all people, not just one nation.
“and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him.‘Hail, king of the Jews!’ they said.”
This verse captures one of the most heartbreaking and ironic scenes in Scripture. The Roman soldiers mocked Jesus, dressing Him in a robe, placing a crown of thorns on His head, and sarcastically hailing Him as king. Yet in their mockery, they unintentionally revealed a profound truth—Jesus is the King.
The crown of thorns is deeply symbolic: it represents both the curse of sin (Genesis 3:18) and the cost of our redemption. Jesus wore suffering on His head so we could wear forgiveness on our hearts. Even as He was ridiculed, He displayed a different kind of power—a King who conquers through love, not violence.
One Thing to Note:
The soldiers knelt in mock worship, but one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10–11). The true King was never more regal than when He endured mockery with silent authority and unwavering purpose.
"Let this Messiah, this king of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.”Those crucified with him also heaped insults on him."
These words were spoken in mockery by the religious leaders and those passing by as Jesus hung on the cross. Their challenge was clear: “If you're really the King, prove it—save yourself.” But what they failed to see was that Jesus was proving His kingship not by coming down, but by staying on the cross.
In the upside-down kingdom of God, victory comes through surrender and glory through suffering. Jesus refused to save Himself so that He could save us. His power was not in escaping pain, but in enduring it—fulfilling prophecy, defeating sin, and revealing the heart of the Father.
One Thing to Note:
This verse highlights a tension we still face today: the desire for a spectacular King who meets our expectations, versus a sacrificial King who meets our deepest need. The mocking crowd wanted signs, but Jesus offered salvation. True belief doesn’t demand proof—it responds in faith to love displayed.
Jesus as King in the Epistles
After His resurrection, Jesus's kingship is declared with even greater clarity.
" to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler,
the King of kings and Lord of lords"
In this powerful verse, the apostle Paul reminds Timothy—and us—of the supreme authority of God and Christ. Jesus is not just a king; He is the King of kings, exalted above all rulers, presidents, powers, and authorities. His dominion is not temporary or political—it is eternal, righteous, and unmatched.
This declaration comes in the context of Paul urging Timothy to live a godly life, reminding him that everything—Christ’s return, justice, and final glory—will happen in God’s perfect timing. It’s a call to trust in Jesus's sovereignty, who reigns over everything, even when the world feels out of control.
One Thing to Note:
The title “King of kings and Lord of lords” directly affirms Christ’s ultimate supremacy. No one outranks Him. When life feels chaotic or uncertain, we can rest in knowing that our King is above all kings, and nothing escapes His rule.
“But about the Son he says,‘Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.’”
This verse is a direct declaration of Jesus’s divinity and kingship. Quoting from Psalm 45, the writer of Hebrews shows that God the Father speaks to the Son and calls Him “God”—confirming both His eternal nature and His royal authority. Jesus doesn’t inherit a temporary throne; He reigns forever with a scepter of justice, meaning His rule is completely righteous and fair.
One Thing to Note:
This is one of the clearest places in Scripture where Jesus is directly called God by God the Father Himself. It affirms both His divine identity and His eternal kingship, making this not just a theological statement—but a reason to worship Him as King with deep awe and confidence.
“And again, Isaiah says,‘The Root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations; in him the Gentiles will hope.’”
This verse quotes Isaiah 11:10, highlighting the prophetic promise that Jesus—the Root of Jesse (descendant of King David)—would not only rule over Israel but also bring hope to the Gentiles. Paul is showing that Jesus's kingship extends far beyond national boundaries. He is the universal King, and His reign is one of hope, not fear.
Gentiles were often seen as outsiders to the covenant when Paul wrote this. But this verse reminds us that Jesus came for all, and His kingship brings inclusion, peace, and a future to every tribe, tongue, and nation.
One Thing to Note:
Jesus is described as both a King who rules and a King in whom we hope. His leadership isn’t just about authority—it’s about providing a secure, unshakable foundation for every soul, no matter their background.
"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom
of the Son he loves."
This powerful verse describes a spiritual transfer—God has delivered us from the dominion of darkness (sin, death, and separation) and placed us into the kingdom of Jesus, His beloved Son. It's not just that Jesus rules; we now live under His reign of light, love, and grace.
Paul emphasizes that following Christ isn’t just about believing something intellectually—it’s about living in a new kingdom with a new identity and allegiance. Jesus is the King who rescues, claims us as His own, and rules with compassion and justice.
One Thing to Note:
This verse beautifully captures salvation as a shift in citizenship. We aren’t just forgiven—we’re relocated into the kingdom of Christ. As believers, we live under a new ruler, with a new hope, purpose, and future. Jesus is not just Savior—He is King.
Christ the King Verses in Revelation
The Book of Revelation paints the clearest picture of Jesus' eternal reign.
"and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth.To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood,"
Right from the opening of Revelation, Jesus is exalted in three powerful roles: He is the faithful witness (revealing the truth of God), the firstborn from the dead (conquering death and leading us into resurrection life), and the ruler of the kings of the earth (the true King above all earthly power).
This verse is a beautiful blend of majesty and mercy. Jesus isn’t a distant, detached ruler—He’s the King who loves us and has freed us from sin through His own blood. His reign is marked not by oppression but by redemptive love. That’s the kind of King worth worshiping.
One Thing to Note:
Jesus is not becoming the ruler—He already is the ruler of all kings. While earthly powers seem dominant for now, this verse assures believers that Christ’s authority is supreme and His love is personal. He’s the King of all and yet knows you by name.
"and sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: ' Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations.'"
This verse captures a scene of heavenly worship, where those who have overcome evil sing a song that blends both Old Testament deliverance (Moses) and New Testament redemption (the Lamb, Jesus). At the heart of their praise is a declaration of God’s righteous rule—He is the King of the nations, and everything He does is just, true, and marvelous.
One Thing to Note:
This song unites Moses and the Lamb—linking deliverance from Egypt with deliverance from sin and death. It reminds us that God's pattern of saving and reigning is consistent throughout Scripture, and worship is the rightful response to His kingship. Even in judgment, His ways are and true.
"They will wage 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 verse is a powerful glimpse into Jesus's ultimate victory. Though evil forces rise to battle against Him, there is no question about the outcome—the Lamb triumphs. Why? Because He is not just any ruler—He is the Lord of lords and King of kings.
One Thing to Note:
Jesus is referred to here as both Lamb and King—reminding us that His rule is both sacrificial and sovereign. He conquered through the cross and will return in glory to reign forever. As believers, we’re not just rescued—we’re invited to reign with Him.
"On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND
LORD OF LORDS."
This verse is one of the most majestic declarations of Jesus’s authority in all Scripture. As Christ returns in glory, riding on a white horse to bring justice and final victory, His identity is boldly displayed: King of Kings and Lord of Lords. This is not a hidden truth—it is written on Him, unmistakable and eternal. This is the triumphant King who once wore a crown of thorns and now returns crowned in glory.
One Thing to Note:
This is the final and ultimate revelation of Jesus as King. The same Savior who came in humility now returns in power and splendor. And His title isn’t whispered—it’s written as a banner of victory, reminding us that the Lamb has become the conquering King, and His reign is forever.
Christ the King in the Old Testament: Prophecy Fulfilled
Before Jesus walked the earth, prophets pointed toward a coming King who would reign with justice, righteousness, and peace. Here is a list of key Old Testament Bible verses that prophesy or foreshadow Jesus as King. These verses point to the coming Messiah—a King in the line of David—whose kingdom would be eternal.
"For to us a child is born,to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be calledWonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this."
"The days are coming,” declares the Lord,“when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch,a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called:
The Lord Our Righteous Savior."
"I have installed my kingdom on Zion, my holy mountain.”I will proclaim the Lord’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father. Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession. You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery.”
"Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."
"In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory, and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed."
"A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—and he will delight in the fear of the Lord. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth."
Two Devotional Bible Studies That Explore Christ the King
In my devotionals, Redeemed By The Cross and 40 Days Through The Bible, I explore Jesus as the King who came not to conquer by force, but to redeem through sacrifice. He wore a crown of thorns, carried a cross, and now reigns forever. These devotionals invite women to draw close to the heart of our Savior-King through Scripture, reflection, and prayer.
These studies are available on Amazon and in our digital Bible study library.
40 Days Through the Bible: Discovering God’s Blueprint For Redemption: Uncover God’s Big Picture -the Storyline Of The Bible (perfect for men and women and groups too!)
Other Related Bible Study Articles You Might Enjoy
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Karen xo.
