Monarchy Is Good

Christianity doesn’t eliminate authority. Jesus himself gives commands, and warns of terrible consequences for those who disobey. But he reveals that true authority doesn’t beat people down, but raises them up. Ruling isn’t lording over others, but serving them. For the Son of Man didn’t come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. This is the Christmas gospel, the good news of the kingdom: Through Jesus and his Spirit, all authorities are called to mimic the heavenly king, who is sunlight and rain. The kingdom is good news because the King exerts authority by giving authority, by giving himself.