Mark 10:35-45, Greatness in Christ’s Kingdom

If we, as Christians, as followers of Christ, ask, “how can a man achieve greatness,” then we must ask, “how did Jesus achieve greatness?”  We have seen that “taking up your cross” means, amongst other things, that we will not think according to man’s thoughts but will think God’s thoughts (Mk. 8:31-33).  The story in today’s passage that provides the backdrop for Jesus’ teaching on servanthood bears out what we have already seen about greatness. 

First, if James and John were going to achieve the greatness they had in mind (sitting on either side of Christ in His kingdom), then they must be the most “Christlike.”  Our identification with Christ must, as Paul put it, first be seen in our conformity to His death before we can attain to the resurrection of the dead (Phil. 3:10-11).  Thus, Jesus first answer to their question is to ask whether they can endure the “baptism of fire” that He will endure.  He is not so much concerned with their answer, “we are able”, as He is being sure they understand the path of greatness in His kingdom. 

His second answer (v39-40) is always true: the greatness they seek is only for God the Father to give.  He is the one who stands behind the great promise that is repeated all over Scripture, “whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Mt. 23:12; check the cross-references; this is a universal principle).  Again, if we want to see this truth lived out, just look at Christ, the Son of God.  Because He humbled Himself, even to death on the cross, therefore God has highly exalted Him (Phil. 2:5-11). 

Of course, this is not just James and John’s failure in thinking the things of God.  The rest of the Twelve are upset because they didn’t think to ask Jesus first, or because they are just angry with the two brothers.  We all have this problem. Right!?

Okay, so maybe you think the disciples of Jesus are a little more wrapped up in the desire for greatness.  Let’s review.  When was the list time you were jealous or envious?  When did you ever start an argument or add fuel to the flames?  Engaged in any gossip lately?  Speak meanly of someone who did not share your political or sports or other opinions?  We have said that God created us for greatness, to have dominion over creation.  It is natural to seek greatness.  But we have also noted that sin entered the picture, and that the greatness we seek and how we intend to achieve it are all twisted. 

That is why we need to hear Jesus.  As is typical, He insists that His disciples repent and believe.  Always, repent and believe.  Repent: it shall not be so among you!  Believe: be the servant … be slave of all.  How does this make sense?  “Sense” is found in Christ: For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.