The Coronation of a King

The unreliability of eyewitness accounts is frequently emphasized in situations in which the corroborating evidence is lacking or questionable in some way.  Ray Vander Laan’s third chapter of “The Mission of Jesus: Triumph of God’s Kingdom in a World of Chaos” is entitled ‘Coronation of a King.’  Vander Laan explores the transformation of the Roman centurion who participated in the brutalization of Jesus during the crucifixion.  As Jesus died upon the cross, the centurion declared ‘surely this man was the Son of God!’  Amazingly, the centurion, a dedicated and decorated soldier of the Roman army dramatically changes his opinion of Jesus.  Tiberius Caesar had declared himself divi filius—the Son of God.  Every soldier not only declared allegiance to the commander-in-chief, the good soldier was expected to defend the life of the emperor.  The centurion’s certainty that Jesus was guilty of threatening the sovereignty of Rome and the authority of Caesar was obliterated by the overwhelming evidence that the centurion witnessed and examined.

For some, the persuasive power of the ministry of Jesus is revealed in the resurrection—some follow Jesus because of His power to overcome the finality of death.  For others, the most compelling demonstration of the power of Jesus is reflected in His power to restore the lives of others.  For the centurion, the awe-inspiring power of Jesus was revealed in the events that accompanied His death.  The testimony of the centurion would certainly include the details of the events that he witnessed. 

Similarly, our testimonies include the details of events involving Jesus that we have witnessed and experienced.  Some may attempt to discredit our testimonies because of the requisite changes in allegiance.  The centurion “switched teams”—he no longer regarded Ceasar as the Son of God.  What, or who, are we required to deny in to affirm our allegiance to Jesus?  The centurion had engaged in numerous reprehensible acts because his beliefs about Jesus had been significantly influenced by the delusional ideations of Caesar.  The centurion had only understood Jesus based upon the false testimonies of Caesar.

As we study, learn, laugh, grow and share, we are encouraging you to plan to participate in the classes and worship services that invite us to share our testimonies about Jesus.  There are only a few more class sessions remaining.  We are looking forward to seeing you in worship and in class.

In Christ,
Jon McCoy