On Line Bible Study - For the week July 28 - August 3, 2008

Lesson 346


How do you define "greatness"?

Matthew 20: 20 The mother of the Zebedee brothers came with her two sons and knelt before Jesus with a request. 21 "What do you want?" Jesus asked. She said, "Give your word that these two sons of mine will be awarded the highest places of honor in your kingdom, one at your right hand, one at your left hand." 22 Jesus responded, "You have no idea what you're asking." (From The Message.)

In the verses just before this, Jesus has explained to his disciples that he is heading for Jerusalem, that he will be mocked, flogged, crucified - and then rise from the dead. That being the case, I don't think the disciples got the picture. Apparently they were still expecting a more conventional kingdom - one with thrones, princes, and some evidence of power over the people.

Is that what you expect from Jesus? An easy life? All material needs met? No worries? Do we "follow" Jesus with the baggage of our expectations, and hoping for some place of privilege? You don't know what you're asking, says Jesus to them - and maybe to us as well.

Matthew 20: 22 He said to James and John, "Are you capable of drinking the cup that I'm about to drink?"

We do not talk about the "spiritually privileged" life; we talk about the "spiritually disciplined" life!

The other disciples became indignant when they heard of this mother's request of Jesus. They undoubtedly felt a streak of jealousy - We want to be at your right and left! And Jesus has to redefine "greatness" for them. He called them all together . . .

Matthew 20: 25-28 Jesus said, "You've observed how godless rulers throw their weight around, how quickly a little power goes to their heads. It's not going to be that way with you. Whoever wants to be great must become a servant. Whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave. That is what the Son of Man has done: He came to serve, not be served—and then to give away his life in exchange for the many who are held hostage."

What are the chances of our achieving such greatness in our lives? It's not a big deal, really. Just serve. Do it joyfully; don't require any thanks or accolades.

Jesus no sooner redefines "greatness" but that he is beckoned by two blind men who hear him passing by. Their request was not to be "great"; all they wanted was to see! Such beautiful irony! The followers of Jesus want distinction and honor; the poor and neglected just want to be seen, and be able to see!

Maybe that can be our prayer - especially when we hear ourselves asking for greatness . . . Maybe we can catch ourselves and change our prayer to that of those blind men - Lord, help me to see what you want me to see today! Isn't that "greatness" - to know God's will for our lives, and then to do it?

For next time we will look at Jesus' entrance - as king - into Jerusalem. Read Matthew 21:1-17 if you get the chance.