Text: Matthew 20:25–28
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant...” (v. 26)
In Matthew 20, two of Jesus’ disciples—James and John—through their mother, made a bold request: positions of honor in Jesus’ kingdom. The other disciples were indignant, not because the request was inappropriate, but because they wanted those spots too.
Jesus responded not with rebuke, but with a radical redefinition of greatness.
The Error Jesus Warns Against:
Jesus said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them... Not so with you.” (vv. 25–26)
Here’s the warning: Do not build the church the way the world builds power.
In the world, leadership is often about position, status, and control. It’s about being served, being seen, and being honored. But Jesus flips that completely on its head.
True Greatness in the Church:
Jesus says that in His kingdom, greatness is not measured by how many serve you—but by how many you serve.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” (vv. 26–27)
Then He points to Himself: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (v. 28)
Jesus, the King of Kings, kneels with a towel. He heals the broken. He washes feet. He dies for sinners. That is greatness.
What We Can Learn:
The church is not a platform for personal power. It’s a place where people serve one another out of love. Titles mean nothing without humility. Influence means nothing without compassion.
We are never more like Christ than when we serve.
We are never more out of step with Christ than when we seek to dominate.
So ask yourself: Am I leading like the world—or like Jesus?
Am I building a name—or building God’s kingdom?
May we follow our Servant King—on our knees, with open hands, and with hearts ready to serve. Amen.
More: Sabbath School Lesson 4 - The Nations Part I
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