The title "Lord of lords" is a significant designation for God and Jesus Christ in the Bible, emphasizing their supreme authority and sovereignty over all other rulers and authorities. This title is used to express the ultimate dominion and power that God holds over the universe and is a testament to His unparalleled majesty and authority.

Old Testament References

The concept of God as the supreme ruler is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. In Deuteronomy 10:17, Moses declares, "For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, mighty, and awesome God, showing no partiality and accepting no bribe." This passage highlights God's unmatched power and justice, affirming His position above all other so-called gods and lords.

The Psalms also reflect this understanding of God's sovereignty. Psalm 136:3 states, "Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His loving devotion endures forever." Here, the psalmist calls for worship and gratitude towards God, recognizing His eternal and steadfast love as a reflection of His supreme lordship.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the title "Lord of lords" is explicitly attributed to Jesus Christ, affirming His divine nature and authority. In 1 Timothy 6:15-16, the Apostle Paul writes, "which the blessed and only Sovereign One—the King of kings and Lord of lords—will bring about in His own time. He alone is immortal and dwells in unapproachable light. No one has ever seen Him, nor can anyone see Him. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen." This passage underscores the unique and exalted position of Christ as the ultimate ruler, whose reign is characterized by immortality and divine majesty.

The Book of Revelation further emphasizes this title in its depiction of the triumphant return of Christ. Revelation 17:14 describes a future battle, stating, "They will make war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will triumph over them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and He will be accompanied by His called and chosen and faithful ones." This imagery portrays Christ as the victorious and supreme ruler, leading His faithful followers to victory.

In Revelation 19:16, the title is inscribed on Christ's robe and thigh: "And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS." This vivid depiction serves as a powerful affirmation of Christ's ultimate authority and His role as the sovereign ruler over all creation.

Theological Significance

The title "Lord of lords" carries profound theological implications. It affirms the monotheistic belief in one true God who reigns supreme over all. In the context of the New Testament, it also serves as a declaration of the divinity of Jesus Christ, who shares in the divine nature and authority of God the Father. This title reassures believers of the ultimate victory and justice that will be established through Christ's reign, offering hope and encouragement in the face of earthly challenges and opposition.

The recognition of God and Christ as "Lord of lords" calls for a response of worship, obedience, and trust from believers. It challenges them to acknowledge God's sovereignty in their lives and to live in accordance with His will, confident in His ultimate authority and the fulfillment of His divine purposes.