To the disciples who were arguing about who among themselves was the greatest (Mark 9:34), Jesus had to redefine greatness. Their concept of greatness was position, power, and titles i.e., the one who could sit on Jesus’ right and left hand of His throne in the kingdom.
Not much has changed! I know in my life I struggle with this identical sin. I want to be recognized as wise, or influential, or powerful among my friends and peers. I want position and titles that will impress others. I want to be an E. F. Hutton, to whom people listen when I speak.
Jesus redefined greatness in Mark 10:43-44 as serving others for God’s glory. Not being served by others with their words of praise, but serving them. Not even serving others for my recognition, but serving others exclusively for God’s glory: “But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.”
“Lord, help me to be great in your sight today by serving someone only for your honor. Maybe I can pray for a person in need and only You will know of that time spent. In Jesus name, Amen.”
Then Jesus said these words about true greatness: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). C. J. Mahaney concludes chapter 3 by contrasting our culture’s definition of greatness and the Biblical definition: “So we have two opposing definitions: greatness as sinfully and culturally defined versus greatness as biblically defined. The conflict between them continues to this day. The battle rages in our very hearts. We desperately need to be liberated. And it is the promise of freedom from pride that Jesus holds out to us.”
I inserted a YouTube of C. J. Mahaney preaching just to expose you to him. I disagree with his view of regeneration prior to repentance and faith. I agree God initiates salvation with what Scriptures teach as conviction of the Holy Spirit.
