Luke 9:43b-56

CHARACTERISTICS OF JESUS’ KINGDOM

 Keywords 9:48b

For he who is least among you all--he is the greatest.

 

1. The least is the greatest (43b-48)

Jesus’ popularity might have been at its peak but he was not swept up in the

moment. He told the disciples that he would be delivered into the hands of men.

The disciples did not understand. However, rather than seek clarity, they began to

argue about who would be the greatest. Jesus had a little child stand beside him

and explained that welcoming a little child in his name was like welcoming Jesus.

Jesus did not care about human praise and honor. He came to serve and those

who serve the least in his name would be the greatest.

 

2. When our pride gets in the way (49-56)

John tried to stop someone from driving out demons in Jesus’ name. His pride

must have been bruised, especially after the disciples had failed to drive out

demons earlier. (9:39-40) Jesus told him that whoever was not against him was

for him. Later Jesus wanted to enter a Samaritan village but was not welcomed.

James and John were offended and asked about calling down fi re from heaven.

Jesus rebuked them for reacting in pride.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for welcoming me. Help me not to live by my pride but to

serve others in your name.

One Word Welcome a little one in Jesus’ name