Sure enough, when Rome ruled and the time was fulfilled (Mark 1:15; Luke 2:1), Jesus was born for the purpose stated by God’s angel:
The Lord God will give to Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end. (Luke 1:32-33)
Seeing Jesus’ miraculous powers, the Jews wanted to make Him king (John 6:15). They needed an earthly king to defeat Rome and restore Israel’s honor (Luke 19:11; 24:21; Acts 1:6). But Jesus had a different kingdom in mind: the honoring of His Father, the restoration of God’s rule in human hearts. After many verbal clashes, the authorities arrested Jesus. While on trial, Jesus answered the Roman governor in this way:
“MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD.”
My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But My kingdom is not from the world. (John 18:36)
Jesus brought a spiritual kingdom without worldly ambitions. That explains why many Jews rejected Jesus. They wanted to restore national pride. But Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). They wanted to make their enemies suffer. But Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” and “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:9-10).
Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles…. Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. (Matthew 5:39-41, 44)