Who is the greatest

First, let us compare Jesus’ words in verse 44 with the disciples’ discussion in verse 46: “As for you, let these words sink into your ears: for the Son of Man is going to be handed over to men” (9:44). “Now an argument started among them as to which of them might be the greatest” (v 46). Jesus was thinking of the blessing of others, but the disciples were concerned with themselves. Jesus taught two things. (1) A child represents the weak and the insignificant. Whoever receives such a one in the name of Jesus has received Jesus, and also the Heavenly Father. (2) The one who is least regarded on earth is the one who is great. The word “great” here does not imply “the greatest,” in the sense of comparing with others. In the kingdom of God, there is no comparison with others. Knowing this leads to freedom. One of the barometers of spiritual growth is how much less you compare yourself with others. No matter how much you strive, there will always be someone above you. At times you may feel a sense of superiority, only to be tormented by inferiority the next moment. To break this vicious cycle, you must lay the foundation of your life on the fact that “I am rightly valued by God.” Do you have the kind of personality that is never satisfied unless you are number one?

Who are your friends?

There was a man casting out demons in the name of Jesus. He may have been a disciple of John the Baptist. The disciples tried to stop him because he was not part of their group. Then Jesus established an important principle for Christians to follow: “Do not stop him; for the one who is not against you is for you.” If this principle had been faithfully kept, many of the tragedies in church history could have been avoided. Unfortunately, even now, it is often the case that churches or individuals whom God is using are criticized simply because they are “not part of our group.” If a message is being proclaimed that says, “Only our church is the true church,” such a church is in a spiritually unhealthy condition.