Who Is the Greatest?

 

 

That question clearly preoccupied the disciples of Jesus as they walked with him in and around the hillside of first century Judea. Indeed, on at least three occasions these purportedly humble and meek men of Galilee were caught bickering about their own prominence and prestige in the kingdom of God. Mark's Gospel recounts one of these incidents as follows:

 

Then He came to Capernaum. And when He was in the house He asked them, 'What was it you disputed among yourselves on the road?" But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest. And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, "If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all." (Mark 9:33-35).

 

Despite their longing for greatness, the disciples were apparently a bit embarrassed to have their self-seeking and vain ambitions exposed. In other words, even while desperately wanting to be recognized for their greatness, they wanted to somehow appear humble about it at the same time. Of course human nature has not changed a bit since the days of Jesus. Most of us, and I dare say men especially, are driven by these same desires today. 

 

How then can we train ourselves out of such a deep-seated thought pattern? Here are some thoughts that may help us:

 

1. The question should not have to be asked. In a kingdom the greatest is the king. So it is that in the kingdom of God, King Jesus is the greatest. The rest of us are less great by many orders of magnitude, or if you prefer, our greatness strictly does not compare with the majesty of God. 

 

2. The question is misguided. Paul's analogy of the body should give us some perspective on this. Just as the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you" (1 Cor. 12:21), so the eye cannot say to the hand, "I am greater than you." Eyes and hands have different functions altogether. In the same way you and I have different gifts, callings, strengths and weaknesses, etc. The question of who is greatest (next to Jesus) simply cannot be answered.

 

3. The question reveals a carnal and even idolatrous appetite. Most believers would agree that money, food, and sex are all good things in themselves, but can become idols when sought above the kingdom of God. The same principle holds for respect and prestige. Being honored is a good thing, but seeking and longing to be honored at the price of service to others or worship of God is idolatry. John warned us against "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" (1 John 2:15). 

 

This is an important point to consider, as it directly impacts our faith. "How can you believe," said Jesus, "who receive honor from one another but do not receive the honor that comes from the only God?" (John 5:44). It's a rhetorical question, of course. We cannot have faith in God and at the same time strive for prominence and recognition. Let's try to remember that ultimately we answer to God alone, for God alone is "able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think... to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen" (Eph. 3:20-21).