In a real sense, we ought to desire to be “great” in the church today. Each of us may have our own ideas about what it takes to be a “great” member. We may describe a preacher as being “great” because of his ability to deliver much needed and thought-provoking sermons. We may consider an elder as “great” because he always seems to say the right things at the right time. We may consider a Bible class teacher as “great” because she is so effective in delivering her lessons to children. Do you really want to be “great” in the church? We may each have our own ideas about “greatness”, but who would Jesus describe as being “great” today? Let us consider some things he said about being great in the kingdom (the church).
Jesus said, “Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven (Mt. 5.19).”
Jesus said, “Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Mt. 18.4).”
Jesus said, “Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant (Mt. 20.26).”
Jesus said, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great (Lk. 9.48).”
Do you still want to be great in the church?
Think about it!
Kevin Williams
