Greatest Of All Time

Mark 9:33-35, 10:45

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Who is the greatest? That’s a question that can spark lively discussion, arguments, even fights. Sports fans will argue over who the best quarterback, point guard, batsman of all time is. Political commentators will argue over the president that has been the greatest. Historians will argue over the world leaders that have had the greatest impact on the world. Who is the greatest?

Jesus’ disciples also argued about that same question. In Mark chapter 9 beginning at verse 33. It is written.

They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” But they remained silent, because on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. Jesus sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he will be the last of all and the servant of all.” (Mark 9:33-35)

Jesus turns the idea of greatness upside down. If greatness were directly proportional to service who is the greatest? The janitor cleaning the bathrooms at the school? The mom wiping the baby’s bottom and changing the diaper? Who is the greatest? If you think of greatness along the lines of service you probably have many people in your life that you owe thanks and gratitude to because they have served you. Parents, grandparents, family, and friends. But one person rises above them all.

Who is the greatest? Jesus the Christ. He said to his disciples do not think that I have come to be served, but to serve, and to give my life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45) Jesus loves you and he served you by carrying the great guilt of your sins all the way to the cross. And he suffered and died in payment for all of those sins so that through his great service you are forgiven. You are now a dearly loved by God.

Who is the greatest? Jesus the Christ. Because he has served all people through his life, death, and resurrection. May his great service to you motivate you to serve others, Amen.