Monday, August 2, 2021

The Greatest of All

He who is greatest among you shall be your servant.
- Matthew 23:11

An undeniable trend in our current culture is about getting ahead, being in the spotlight, or being discovered. It seems as though people will do anything to make a name for themselves. For many years now, our homes and heads have been flooded with reality shows profiling this year’s best contestants at some endeavor that requires some form of talent, or at least the appearance of it. Many times in this pursuit of fame, the drama of each contestant doing whatever is necessary to win reveals the lack of true character, rather than an abundance of it.

Unfortunately, this same approach has entered into some of our churches. In many places, instead of worship services being seen as an opportunity for an encounter with the living God, they have become nothing more than entertainment venues showcasing those who are perceived as having talent. In the midst of all this, it can be tempting for those in the spotlight or on the stage to get the idea that they are more important than others, and expect to be served rather than to serve.

As I have said many times, the kingdom of which we are now a part is mutually exclusive and diametrically opposed to the kingdom out of which God has called us. Those the world regards as great say, “I want you to serve me,” but in the kingdom of God, the greatest say, “I want to serve you.”

Jesus told His followers to follow the instructions of the Pharisees, but cautioned them to avoid following their example. He said there was no need to try to be heard with their loud, public prayers or be seen with their lengthened tassels and long flowing robes. Jesus used the example of the religious people to remind His followers that greatness was not found in loud praying or ceremonial dress, but rather in an attitude of service.

Oswald Chambers wrote, “The real test of a saint is not one’s willingness to preach the gospel, but one’s willingness to do something like washing the disciple’s feet – that is, being willing to do those things that seem unimportant in human estimation but count as everything to God.”

Regardless of the position we hold in life and ministry, or the honors given to us by men and organizations, true greatness is not defined by the approval or acclaim of popular culture. Our greatness is demonstrated by our ability and willingness to serve others as we serve Christ. Let us consistently and faithfully choose Christ’s kingdom over this fallen culture. Let us serve one another.

Further Reading

• Matthew 23:11
• Deuteronomy 17:20
• Romans 7:25