Who is the Greatest?
Luke 9:46-50
6 An argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. 47 But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.”49 John answered, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he does not follow with us.” 50 But Jesus said to him, “Do not stop him, for the one who is not against you is for you.”
Observations and Reflections
It is often easy for one to gain a lot of self confidence when they are in ministry. Often times if we are not careful, being in the spotlight and getting recognition will get to our heads. Humility is a key ingredient when we get involved in ministry. Pursuing a humble attitude is what keeps us grounded and allows for us to be affective in putting others before ourselves when it comes to whatever type of service we are involved in.
The disciples were still learning that even though Jesus had asked them to come follow Him, thousands of lives were still being saved and there were those who were being added to those who were now following after Christ. Jesus is beginning to instill the important lesson of being unified with other believers and joining in on doing the work of Christ together.
Humility draws a clear boundary between wanting to be praised and having a genuine desire to simply serve God and others. It causes us to reflect on what God is doing in us and thank God for continually wanting to use us as His vessels.