Which King?
A History of Christ and His Church
October 18, 2026
Rev. Dr. Gabe Sylvia
Using 1 Samuel 8 and historical and New Testament examples, the sermon warns that rejecting God’s lordship for human kings or worldly allegiance enslaves us to sin, and calls believers to live under Christ’s rule to enjoy true freedom, peace, and abundant life.
Summary
Drawing on 1 Samuel 8, Psalm 2, the example of Washington’s rejection of monarchy, and Paul’s teaching, the sermon explains that Israel’s demand for a human king revealed a deeper spiritual problem: the old self unwilling to submit to God’s authority. While God remains a faithful warrior and guide, when we fail to protect Christ’s lordship in our hearts we become subject to other ‘kings’—sin, worldliness, or exhaustion—losing the freedom and fullness Jesus offers. The preacher urges holding to God’s law as the shape of life under the King, accepting the inevitable opposition that follows, and returning to the gospel’s grace so we might live renewed, peaceful, generous lives. The message closes with a prayer asking God to open eyes to the freedom already won in Christ.
Key Points
- Text: 1 Samuel 8 and Psalm 2 frame the question of which king we serve
- Historical example: Washington rejected becoming a king, recalling Samuel’s warnings
- Samuel’s sons failed as leaders, showing the danger of relying on human rulers instead of God
- God is a faithful warrior and ruler; Israel’s rejection was a spiritual failure of the heart
- To be under God’s kingship means living by His Word—His law shapes life and conduct
- Following Christ will often bring misunderstanding or maligning by others
- A human monarchy was permitted in God’s plan but on His terms and timing; demanding it cost Israel freedoms
- Paul’s teaching: submitting to other ‘kings’ (worldly ways) leads to slavery to sin, not mercy
- If life leaves you exhausted, you may be serving the wrong king; Christ offers grace, hope, and freedom
- Pastoral call: see and receive the freedom earned by Christ; pray for eyes of faith and willingness to live under God’s rule
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