THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM
Matthew 18:1 – At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? (KJV)
Read: Matthew 18:1-5
In today’s scripture focus, the disciples wanted to know the greatest in God’s Kingdom. However, Jesus wanted the followers to know that focusing on rank or reputation would mean that they have a distorted revelation of the Kingdom of Heaven. In response, Christ called a child into their midst and told the disciples that they would have to be like little children to enter God’s Kingdom (Matthew 18:3). In other words, for anyone to be considered the greatest by God, they must have the nature of a child, who does not focus on acquiring power or attaining positions.
Jesus further clarified His response in Matthew 18:4, saying, “Whoever humbles themselves like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven”. Among several qualifying characteristics of children, Christ chose the word “humility.” This must be so important to God because there are other visible traits that could be used to describe children. Nevertheless, children are worthy of this quality due to their humble innocence. Even when it seems a child is proud, it is because of what their parents have done for them, through which they indirectly give credit to their parents (God).
Therefore, Christ does not want us to concentrate on accumulating power or status, which could make us arrogant. But instead, humbly focus on God, and if you are to boast, 2 Corinthians 10:17 says, “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.”
Finally, Jesus noted in Matthew 18:5 that “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me”. All through the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus identified with those regarded as powerless, insignificant, and needy. He often therefore emphasised that our response to such people is proportional to our response to Him (Matthew 10:40-42; 25:34-46). May God help us, in Jesus’ name. Amen!
PRAYER
Hymn: I Need Thee Every Hour – Robert Lowry (1872)
1. Father, help me to be sold out to You and give me the spirit of humility.
(THE MIDNIGHT PRAYER)
1. Spend quality time praying in the Holy Ghost.
GOD BLESS YOU!
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