Who Does Jesus Consider to be Great in His Kingdom?

The answer is very different than what we are used to.

https://www.pexels.com/photo/accomplishment-action-adult-adventure-372098/

Jesus often took what His followers expected and turned it upside down.

At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” (Matthew 18:1)

When the disciples thought of Jesus’ kingdom, they thought of a similar power structure they were used to seeing in kingdoms. They wanted to know who would be the greatest or the most powerful in Jesus’ kingdom.

Jesus’ reply turned their view of His kingdom upside down.

Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:2-4)

There are many people more powerful than little children. In fact, even an older person in poor health is still more powerful than a little child. As far as “greatness” goes - this was as far down the ladder as you can get.

In Jesus’ kingdom, humility is valued over our definitions of “greatness.”

However, Jesus didn’t just tell others to serve. As the Master and King, He came to be a servant (Matthew 20:25-28).

Jesus demonstrated this when He washed His disciples’ feet.

So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. (John 13:12-17)

The “greatest” person in the Lord’s kingdom today might be someone that few people know. The “greatest” person is the one who quietly serves others - not calling attention to themselves (Matthew 6:1-4).

Whenever we think about doing something for recognition in the Lord’s kingdom, let’s remember who the Lord truly considers to be great.