3. The Servant King

In every age, kings and rulers grasp for power, but Jesus redefines kingship. He “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). His crown was woven of thorns, His scepter a rough beam of wood. This is not weakness but the deepest strength: the eternal Son laying aside glory to lift us from our sin and shame.

Jesus washed His disciples’ feet on the very night He was betrayed. The One who flung galaxies into being stooped to scrub dust from calloused heels. True authority is not measured in control but in sacrificial care. His humility disarms our pride and invites us to trust the One who serves with infinite love.

The Servant King carried our guilt to the cross, absorbing the judgment we deserved so we could share His life. When we feel unworthy, He reminds us that His rule is rooted in mercy. We are freed not only from sin’s penalty but also from the endless striving to prove ourselves.

To confess Jesus as Servant King is to let His example reshape our ambitions. Greatness in His kingdom is measured by how we serve—whether we lead teams at work, care for children, or quietly pray for neighbors. Empowered by the Spirit, we embody His love in small, hidden acts that reflect His glory.

Lyrics

Verse 1
Before the dawn of all creation,
The Word was God, the Son was near;
But love would choose a lowly station,
To walk the dust and dry the tear.

Verse 2
He set aside the crown of heaven,
Took on the frailty of our frame;
The Mighty One became a servant,
Obedient even to a cross of shame.

Chorus
So we follow where He leads,
Lay down pride and selfish needs.
Every heart and voice will sing—
Jesus is the Servant King.
Servant King.

Verse 3
The Father raised Him high in glory,
Gave Him the Name above all names;
Every knee will bow before Him,
Every tongue His Lordship claim.

Verse 4
Now the church He calls together,
One in heart and one in mind;
To show His love to one another,
The humble way of Christ to find.

Chorus
So we follow where He leads,
Lay down pride and selfish needs.
Every heart and voice will sing—
Jesus is the Servant King.

So we follow where He leads,
Lay down pride and selfish needs.
Every heart and voice will sing—
Jesus is the Servant King.
Servant King.

Outro
Let the same mind dwell within us,
That was found in Christ the Son;
Till the day He stands among us,
And His holy work is done.

Reflective Questions

1. Where do you feel pressure to prove your worth through achievement or control?
2. How does Jesus’ act of washing feet challenge your understanding of leadership and strength?
3. What “small, hidden acts” of service could you offer this week in your home, church, or workplace?
4. How might remembering that Christ bore your burdens free you from striving to earn God’s favor?
5. In what relationship or setting is God calling you to embody the Servant King’s humility today?