Are you the king of the Jews? Homily for the Solemnity of Christ the King.

Pilate asks Jesus, “Are you the king of the Jews?” This question about Jesus’ kingship is found in all four of the Gospel accounts of the trial. John’s Gospel develops this idea of kingship into the governing motif of the trial. Pilate’s question shows that he has seen through the ploy of Jesus’ accusers. He knows that they are bringing Jesus to trial on a political charge. The Romans reserved to themselves the right to appoint client kings in their empire. To claim that title independently of Rome is tantamount to leading a rebellion, and under Roman law that amounted to sedition, a threat to the Pax Romana.