Who do you believe is the greatest disciple of Christ? Before you answer, take a look at today’s post from the Book of Mark.
In this Bible study lesson, Jesus teaches us that the greatest disciple is not who we might think. And, you will learn the meaning behind the song; “Jesus Loves the Little Children“.
Read more to find out who is the greatest follower – or not.
The lesson comes from the Gospel of Mark 9:33-37, and asks the question: “Who is the greatest disciple and follower of Christ?”
This is the question mulled around by the soon to be apostles as they came into Capernaum.
But, Jesus knew their hearts so explained to them who was the greatest, much to their dismay.
Disciples Argue Over Who is the Greatest But, Jesus Tells Who Will Be First
They came to Capernaum; and when He was in the house, He began to question them, “What were you discussing on the way?”
But they kept silent, for on the way they had discussed with one another which of them was the greatest.
Sitting down, He called the twelve and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.”
Taking a child, He set him before them, and taking him in His arms, He said to them, “Whoever receives one child like this in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me does not receive Me, but Him who sent Me.” – Mark 9:33-37 NASB
The Greatest Follower of Christ?
This passage is very short. But, it’s also very profound!
First, the NASB uses the word “discussed“, which implies a mild conversation. The New King James Bible says; “disputed“, which has a little stronger meaning.
Either way, the disciples were more caught up in the power & leadership game than the follow-ship Jesus taught. The verses pretty much speak for themselves when Christ explained what He was all about – Serving!
Do We Practice Following and Serving, or..
Are we so caught up in taking charge that we forget what Jesus commanded us to do? To refresh, we are supposed to:
- Go
- Serve
- & Share.
This is the base of our mission as Christians. When we love God; and love one another as Christ commanded, we naturally do the tasks above.
Sadly, in many cases, we act very much like those disciples. Yes, we are many times caught up in our ambitions and insecurity – instead of focusing on following the examples of Jesus Christ.
Worldly Goals vs. Spiritual Goals
We all need the security of a good job or profession. And, there is absolutely nothing wrong with having financial goals to support ourselves and our families.
In fact, God was a worker Himself!
If you go back to Genesis God started off with creating the world and all the things in it. This was His job and He was very satisfied with the results.
But, the sin comes when we let our worldly ambitions keep us from being obedient to God.
We walk a thin line between career or monetary goals, which give us position and prestige on earth, and the decision to follow Christ, along with His goal for us to work in His behalf.
“Jesus Loves the Little Children”
Jesus welcomed children into His arms. In those days, children were not treated with much respect. So, this was a new idea for the disciples.
Beloved, we should welcome our children…
- pray for them
- love them
- and teach them more about the Bible and Jesus Christ.
They are our future! And, they will play a large part in the “great commission” of making new disciples.
Just in Case…
Just to refresh your memory, I included these lyrics to “Jesus Loves the Little Children.”
Jesus loves the little children,
All the children of the world.
Red, and yellow, black, and white,
They are precious in His sight
Jesus loves the little children of the world.
Jesus cares for all the children,
All the children of the world.
Red, and yellow, black, and white,
They are precious in His sight
Jesus cares for all the children of the world.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to read this.