No Kings… but Jesus

In recent days, crowds have gathered with signs declaring “No Kings,” protesting the idea of dominant leadership or perceived authoritarian rule. Yet the irony is striking—such protests are only possible in a nation with no king. The very freedom to denounce monarchy and power comes from living in a republic, established under a constitutional order, not the reign of earthly royalty. But deeper still lies a powerful truth: for the believer, there has only ever been one rightful King—Jesus Christ.

A Nation Without a King… But Not Without Authority

America was founded in rejection of monarchy, built on a system that placed power in institutions, not individuals. We do not bow to crowns or kneel to scepters. Instead, we elect presidents—fallible men who, though given high office, remain bound to the same Constitution as every citizen.

Yet, in today’s climate, political opponents often mockingly call a sitting president—specifically Donald J. Trump—a “king,” as if he seeks a throne. But no president in American history has ever held divine authority, nor has one embodied the true qualities of a spiritual king. Even the most devout among them were but men—limited, flawed, temporary.

James A. Garfield: The Last Minister-In-Chief

It is worth noting that since President James A. Garfield, no American president has entered office having first been ordained as a Christian minister and Elder. Garfield was not just a statesman; he was a preacher of the Gospel—a man who delivered sermons before he delivered speeches. Yet even he did not claim spiritual kingship. He understood that the Oval Office holds power, but never divinity.

Since his assassination in 1881, America has not been led by any president who could credibly be called a Christian shepherd of the nation. Many have invoked God. Few have walked as His ministers. To place divine expectations on secular leaders is to misunderstand both Scripture and history.

The Christian’s Allegiance: Higher Than Politics

The Apostle Paul instructs us to “pray for kings and all those in authority” (1 Timothy 2:2). We honor leaders, respect offices, and seek peace. Whether one says “He’s still your president” or opposes his policies, Christians must remember: no president—Republican or Democrat—sits on the throne of our soul.

Our ultimate obedience is to Christ alone. Earthly leaders come and go every four or eight years. Their words fill headlines, but their legacies fade like weathered stone. Christ alone reigns eternal.

While Many Protest, Others Worship

As some gathered in the streets to protest President Trump as a so-called “king,” Christians gathered in church buildings to worship the only true King—Jesus. While the world chanted resistance, believers raised hands in reverence. While signs read “No Kings,” the Church proclaimed, “No king but Christ.”

The Only Throne That Matters

Jesus needs no ballot. He fears no election. His authority is not granted by man and cannot be revoked by protests.

He is:

• The King of Kings (Revelation 19:16)

• The Lord of Lords

• The Alpha and Omega (Revelation 22:13)

• The same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8)

So let the world protest kingship. The Christian does not deny kings—we simply acknowledge there is only One worthy of the title.

No Kings but Jesus

To those declaring “No Kings,” we affirm: Indeed—no kings but Jesus.

No president—past, present, or future—will ever wear the crown of our faith. We will pray for leaders, respect authority, and engage our civic duty. But our loyalty belongs to a higher throne.

For America has no king… but the Church does. And His name is Jesus.