Luke 23:38
And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
Luke 23:38
On the cross, Jesus is presented with a formal indictment—the title or superscription—that names him as “THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” Luke notes it was written in Greek, Latin, and Hebrew, the three languages of the empire’s administration, law, and the local Jewish community. This multilingual inscription intentionally communicates to diverse observers: the authorities, the crowd, and the criminals beside Jesus. Historically, such a placard would be a public proclamation of the charge, but in Luke’s Gospel it becomes a paradox. Jesus is declared “king” in a way that contradicts the expected royal politics of Rome. Yet this king wears humiliation, not a crown, and he reigns through suffering, not military power. The inscription highlights the gospel’s theme that Jesus’ sovereignty is defined by obedience to the Father, cross-shaped leadership, and a Kingdom inaugurated through sacrifice.
The title foregrounds a central Gospel truth: Jesus is the Messiah, but his kingship is of a different order. His kingship is not about conquest but redemption; not about prestige but reconciliation with God and humanity. The accessibility of the inscription in three languages signals the universality of his reign—God’s plan extends to Gentiles and Jews alike. It also foreshadows the insistence that Jesus is Lord over all, including authorities who crucified him. The placard becomes a lens through which the crowd’s reaction is interpreted: some mock, some watch, some bow. Luke invites readers to recognize that true authority often lies in the cross and that allegiance to this king demands trust, repentance, and faith.
We, too, encounter “titles” that claim authority: career success, social status, political power. The cross challenges us to reframe what true leadership looks Like. Practical takeaway: measure leadership by self-giving service, not by dominance. When you face pressure to prove yourself, ask what kind of “king” you’re serving. In family life, marriage, or work, imitate Jesus’ quiet, costly love—put others’ good ahead of your own advancement. The multilingual inscription also invites a posture of humility toward others: Jesus’ kingship is for all peoples and languages. Whether you’re communicating with coworkers who don’t share your faith or engaging in community life, lead with the willingness to serve, to forgive, and to lay down your preferences for the sake of reconciliation and peace.
Cross-References: Isaiah 9:6; John 18:37; Colossians 1:13-14; Philippians 2:6-11