Was Jesus King of the Jews or King of Israel or was he both ? If the word King is open to interpretation then who gave Jesus this title and are there interpretations open to questions? Was Jesus only King of the Jews and no one or nobody else?
Hi John,
Jesus was, according to the New Testament, more than just the King of the Jews and no one else. Jesus is also given the titles, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords in various scriptures, indicating his universal reign:
"[Jesus] is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords" Timothy 6:15
"Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth" Revelations 1:5
"These will wage war against the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, because He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful." Revelations 17:14
"And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS." Revelations 19:16
"God has exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" Philippians 2:10-11.
So, according to the New Testament, Jesus is definitely the King of everybody. If you believe/accept the testimony of the New Testament, then I guess that answers your question. If you don't, then I guess it doesn't. However, you asked, so that would have to be my answer.
Cordially,
S&S
PS--Obviously, the Jews who didn't convert to Christianity down through the ages would not agree to the King of the Jews or King of Israel title. Consequently, they also wouldn't agree to the universal titles. Likewise, these titles would not be accepted by other non-Christians. So, you have lots of company in not accepting any of the foregoing. Of course, for what it's worth, these same folks would also deny such titles to the deities you worship.