A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. 25 Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. 26 But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. 27 For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. 28 You are those who have stood by me in my trials. 29 And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, 30 so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Luke 22:24-30).
As Jesus and the others started into their supper, an argument began. It seems strange that on this solemn occasion, the night before Jesus died, that his followers would be arguing over who was greatest. But that is exactly what happened.
Sadly, this was not the first time that these men engaged in the “greatness” conversation (Matt. 20:20-28; Mark 9:33-37; Luke 9:46-48). Perhaps their argument grew out of the seating arrangements at the supper, for it was customary for the most important guests to sit close to the head of the table. Perhaps these guys were caught up with whom would get special privileges when Jesus set up his messianic kingdom. Self-promotion often leads to arguments!
We define greatness as one who has money, wealth, and power, or one who has incredible skill. Jesus defined greatness as one who serves. His view wasn’t popular among the Roman elite and the powerful people of this world. Of course, he himself is the best example of greatness and he demonstrated it by serving God and others. In God’s family, there is no need to compete with one another for honors and rewards. Instead, we’re to walk in love, just as Christ loved us and sacrificed himself for us (Ephesians 5:1-2).
Warren Wiersbe comments: “Jesus closed this lesson on servanthood by reminding them of their future reward in the kingdom (Luke 22:28-30). In spite of their weaknesses and failures, the disciples had stood by Jesus during His earthly ministry, and God would honor them for their faithfulness. We should not mind being servants today, for we shall sit on thrones in the future kingdom! For that matter, our faithful service today is preparing us for the rewards we shall receive. Jesus has set the example: first the cross, then the crown.”
Do you regularly make yourself available to God? When is the last time you volunteered to serve other people, in a spirit of love, when they couldn’t pay you back? Jesus, our perfect example, has called us into a life of service, and his Spirit empowers us with gifts and abilities to make a huge difference in this world.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, forgive us when life becomes out of focus and we elevate ourselves to the highest place. You and you alone are the greatest of all. You deserve the utmost honor and praise and it is our joy to be your children today.
Question
When are you tempted to think too highly of yourself?