Vibrant Hope: Are you Desiring to be Great?
Here are some scriptures that discuss the theme of greatness, along with explanations for each:
Matthew 20:26–28 (NIV)
Scripture: “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
This passage highlights the idea that true greatness lies in humility and serving others. Jesus compares worldly concepts of greatness, often connected with power and authority, with His own example of being a servant. In God’s kingdom, greatness is determined by one’s readiness to serve and support others, rather than striving for personal recognition.
Mark 9:35 (NIV)
Scripture: “Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’”
In this passage, Jesus is teaching His disciples that greatness does not come from being at the top or having authority over others. Instead, it comes from being willing to put oneself last and serve everyone. This different way of defining greatness challenges societal norms and encourages a mindset of humility and selflessness.
Philippians 2:3–4 (NIV)
Scripture: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the needs and well-being of others over one’s own desires for recognition or success. True greatness comes from humility and a genuine concern for others, leading to unity and love within the community.
Luke 22:26–27 (NIV)
Scripture: “But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.”
Jesus challenges conventional ideas about leadership and greatness by presenting Himself as a servant leader. He teaches that the greatest individuals are those who serve others, rather than seeking status or recognition. This teaching encourages believers to embrace a lifestyle of service and humility.
1 Peter 5:5–6 (NIV)
Scripture: “In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
This scripture emphasizes the significance of humility in relationships and before God. It reassures believers that although humility may not always result in immediate recognition or reward, God values it and will exalt those who display true humility in His timing.
Conclusion
The following scriptures show that greatness, in a biblical context, is closely connected to qualities such as humility, service, and selflessness. They encourage believers to reconsider their definition of success and impact and to focus on the needs of others while reflecting the character of Christ in their own lives.
By Pastor AK Mannah
