At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, “Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:1-4 (KJV)
Today’s passage emphasizes the truth that while Christ’s disciples are not supposed to be of the world, we are still in the world. Instead of concentrating on being like Christ, his disciples worry about individual status among other disciples. Instead of measuring themselves against Christ, they are measuring themselves against each other.
Who is the greatest in the Kingdom? Such a question ignores much of what Jesus taught about equality in the Father’s house. To be asked this by a stranger is one thing, but to be asked this by his disciples must have vexed the Lord’s spirit. The answer would have been the same no matter who asked: be converted and become like a little child. While humanity focuses on the star – the expert — the greatest as a status of singular achievement, Jesus tells these disciples that Kingdom greatness can be achieved by “whosoever.” This would indicate that greatness is relative to spirit and attitude rather than position or office. It also indicates that multiple disciples can be the greatest, which confuses the human understanding.
Note the Lord’s reply to this question: If you do not turn away from such selfish ambition and humble yourselves like this little child, you shall not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Note that we must be “converted” from our human thinking and attitudes to the spirit and attitude of God’s kingdom. We must consider that Jesus answers the question by telling them the requirement of God: be converted in your heart, spirit, and attitude humbling yourselves like little children. Let’s impress God! Be converted and humble ourselves.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Empower us with the grace of humility. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today in the grace of God,