There’s something wrong with this picture! Jesus is on His way to submit to the shame of the cross and His students are jockeying for prominence.
The Teacher doesn’t seem discouraged that after nearly three years His students still don’t understand. We all must be personally encouraged by this.
Instead, He stops and patiently provides yet another lesson.
Jesus called them together and said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
If the Teacher came to earth to serve and give His life for others, what does this say about the key to greatness for His students?
The world is still using battering rams, trying to get into the Halls of Importance! But true greatness does not lie behind a door that can be forcibly breached.
You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant….
Where’s the key to greatness? It’s hidden under the mat near the door, of course! Only have to kneel down to get it.
Humble service for the benefit of others! This alone opens the door leading to the kind of greatness the Teacher has and desires for His students.
Like Teacher, like student…there's the key to greatness.
I can't help but think the disciples were still thinking a physical kingdom. Even after Jesus tells them what is about to happen.
ReplyDelete(Even in Acts 1:6, after the crucifixion, resurrection and just before his ascension the disciples are still thinking a physical kingdom!)
It's easier for us to see and understand the Spiritual kingdom, yet do we?
As well, though some look down on the question to sit in seats of prominence. The other disciples were bothered by their question. Yet do we desire to be great in the Kingdom of God?
I'm not meaning in fame, recognition, riches, etc... But spiritual blessings. Are we storing up treasures in heaven? Are we wanting to become great in God's Kingdom? Jeusus tells us how, as Denny pointed out He's given us the key to greatness. So what are we doing to open the door of greatness in the Kingdom?