Who is the Greatest?

N.T.#387 "Who is the Greatest?"

Sept. 10, 2024 

Mark 9-Part 4 

LET IT GLOW 

Jesus and His disciples were headed toward Capernaum. Jesus didn't want anyone to know He was there so He could spend more time with His disciples. Again, Jesus told the disciples that He was going to be betrayed, killed, and rise 3 days later from the dead. (verses 30-31) Twice before Jesus had told them what wwas going to happen to Him. (8:31, 9:12) (The guys didn't understand what the Messiah meant and were afraid to ask Him. After all Jesus had called them a faithless generation when they couldn't cast out the demon in the boy. (verse 19)

Finally, Jesus asked the disciples what they had been discussing on the road trip. (He already knew the guys had been arguing about which of the was the greatest.) These guys were so focused on their status and position that they losted focus on what God wanted to do through them. They were supposed to be on mission with Jesus to bring salvation to others. Instead, their own ambitions got in the way.

Before we get too hard on the boys, don't we do the same thing? We get wrapped up in a project for Jesus and lose sight of why we are doing it in the first place. Guilty. We need to listen to others around us. What is the greatest need, purpose, best way to accomplish it? How can we help those involved in carrying out the task?

LET IT GROW 

If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. (verse 35b)

Jesus wanted the disciples to accept His different way of leadership in His kingdom-servanthood. To be an important person and great in God's kingdom, we must first lean to be a servant showing kindness and meeting other's needs. It isn't by exalting our self above others. Leave our honor of servanthood to God and His rewards. 

Serving others is real leadership. A real leader has a servant's heart. They are not above any job and appreciate the worth of others. Look for ways we can serve. Don't approach life expecting high positions, honors, and special privileges. 

I am sure it wasn't what the disciples expected at all. It may not be an easy task, but we can do it with Jesus changing our attitude.

LET IT GO

Help us not get sides tracked, keeping the main thing the main thing-honoring God in all we do.

Show us how You want us to serve others today, Jesus.