Who is the greatest in the Kingdom? If you looked at social media, you might think it is us! Nowadays, we are easily impressed and amused with ourselves and others. Words such as “great”, “awesome”, and “amazing” are used regularly on social media to express one’s experience, pleasures, or acknowledgement of others’ accomplishments. I always wonder if there any words that we keep reserved for God alone!?
Jesus’ disciples were curious to know about Jesus considered as the greatest in the kingdom!
At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
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. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me. “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Matthew 18:1-6
I wonder why the disciples asked that question? Were they hoping that Jesus would consider them the greatest in the kingdom? Obviously, they had been faithfully following Him! Had they begun thinking more highly of themselves because of their association with Jesus or the number of times they prayed? It is easy to become proud of our spiritual accomplishments. We are in the danger of thinking that because we go to church or we read our Bibles everyday, we must be great people. We rely on what we do to measure our value!
Jesus’ idea of greatness was different. He told his disciples that a little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. There is something that little children possess that we as adults lose. They are free from being self consciousness and are not worried about what others think of them. This allows them to be who they are without putting a front or trying to impress others. There is simplicity and genuineness in their behavior that is authentic and refreshing. They may even say things that could be uncomfortable but true. However,we don’t necessarily get offended by them because we know they have no agenda and that they are just making observations.
Jesus said that we need to converted and become like a child. What would be some of the things that we need to change to become like a child?
Children do not seek control. They can trustfully sit in a car and allow their parents to take them where they wish.
Children do not worry about tomorrow and where their provision will come from. Generally, they know that their parents will put them first and ensure that their needs are met.
Children can play and be free to enjoy themselves without being concerned about impressing others.
They are curious about their surroundings and are continually learning. They are able to take in the world rather than give their opinion about everything.
Children go to bed and can sleep well without being anxious and fearful. They can feel safe and rest easily because they know mom and dad would protect them.
Children make friends easily, and they do not have the hangups of class, wealth, race, religion, etc.
