True Greatness

True greatness is shown by humility — not pride (Luke 18:9-14; cf. Luke 14:7-11; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5-6). This idea was powerfully demonstrated and taught by our Lord, who told His self-seeking disciples:

“Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:26-28).

When the Lord walked on earth as a man, He humbly washed feet (John 13:1-17), welcomed children (Matthew 19:13-14), and willingly gave His life to deliver us from the self-centered tyranny of sin (John 10:14-18). His example gives credence to our being an humble servant, just as Paul thought of himself as being (Philippians 1:1; Titus 1:1; cf. 1 Corinthians 15:9; Ephesians 3:8).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets

Related Articles:

• How God Measures True Greatness
• Looking At Where True Greatness Is Found