In what ways can we encourage others to recognize Christ's sovereignty today? Christ’s Sovereignty Proclaimed in Psalm 72:11 “May all kings bow down to him and all nations serve him.” Psalm 72:11 anticipates the universal reign of the Messiah. It points beyond Solomon to Jesus, in whom every earthly ruler and nation will ultimately submit (cf. Revelation 19:16). Why This Matters Today • Recognizing Christ’s sovereignty keeps our focus on His ultimate authority rather than shifting cultural opinions. • When others see believers living joyfully under His rule, curiosity and conviction often follow (Matthew 5:16). Practical Ways to Encourage Recognition of Christ’s Sovereignty • Proclaim His authority plainly – Share verses that announce His unmatched rule: • Matthew 28:18 – “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” • Colossians 1:16-17 – Creation’s origin and purpose center on Him. – Speak of Jesus not merely as a spiritual helper but as King over every sphere of life. • Model joyful submission – Submit daily decisions—time, finances, relationships—to His commands (John 14:15). – When believers obey even in adversity, they display a trust that confounds unbelief (1 Peter 3:15). • Worship that magnifies the King – Choose songs and Scripture readings that exalt His throne (Psalm 95:6; Revelation 4:11). – Corporate worship shapes imaginations; guests sense that Someone greater is present. • Use public and private prayer to exalt Him – Pray aloud in gatherings: “Your kingdom come; Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10). – Intercede for leaders and neighbors, acknowledging Christ as the One who “puts everything under His feet” (Ephesians 1:22). • Teach the whole counsel of God – From Genesis to Revelation, trace the redemptive storyline that crowns Jesus Lord (Luke 24:27). – Regular Bible study trains believers to see history—and current events—through the lens of His reign. • Display kingdom compassion – Serve the marginalized, showing the King’s heart for justice and mercy (Micah 6:8; Matthew 25:40). – Acts of sacrificial love validate the message that Christ rules with grace and truth (John 1:14). • Celebrate every knee that bows – Share testimonies of lives transformed by acknowledging Jesus as Lord (Philippians 2:9-11). – Rejoice openly when prayers for salvation are answered; it reminds observers that He reigns now. Living in Anticipation of Universal Submission Psalm 72:11 will be fully realized when “every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:11). Until that day, believers invite the world to recognize what is already true: Christ is sovereign, and His reign is both righteous and good. |