whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. Matthew 20:27 NABRE
Jesus is asked about who will be on His right and left when He comes into His glory. These are positions of power and admiration, so it would be affirming to be chosen for these positions. But there are twelve apostles and with two desiring favorable positions the other ten become indignant. Jesus addressed the requests and the reaction of the others. In the world there are those who have power and lord it over others. But in the kingdom of God there will not be those with authority who rule over others. In fact Jesus declares the opposite will be true in the kingdom of God, those who want to be on top will serve the others, whoever wishes to be the first will be slave to others. Jesus isn’t making a rule rather He is explaining how in the kingdom of God we will prefer to serve one another, to lift others up, to put other’s first, living with humility and servitude. This is how God sets the example, serving all in the kingdom and honoring those who follow. Jesus came to serve, God creates all things for the service of all living creatures. When we see the example set by Jesus and God in the kingdom of God, we will only desire to follow their example, which leads us to loving service.
We might think that power is being on top, or authority is at the top of a structural pyramid. Who can we identify as the top of authority among Father, Son and Spirit? God is relational and desires relationship with all. Leading with authority often requires subservient behavior from those who are led. God desires love, not fearful doers. If God preferred authority according to the worldly model we would not be free to choose as we wish. If we love, we serve, God shows the way.
How do you feel about serving all others? Do you allow others to serve you?
God desires love, not fearful doers. If God preferred authority according to the worldly model we would not be free to choose as we wish. If we love, we serve, God shows the way. Share on X#bible #godisgreat #jesus #christianity #dailybibleverse @youversion #BeAnEncourager #serve #slave #Matthew #everybodyalways #god #jesuschrist #jesussaves #godisgood #dailydevotion #biblestudy #scripture #bibleverse #verseoftheday #cross #last #gospels #loveeachother #godisgreat #thisVineyard #youversion #everythingalways