Matthew 20:17-28, Greatness in Jesus’ Kingdom

For the third time (16:21; 17:22-23) Jesus tells His disciples they are going to Jerusalem where He will suffer at the hands of men, be crucified and raised the third day (20:17-19).  These repeated warnings provide constant backdrop for the events and conversations taking place along the way.  In this case it shows the centrality of the cross between selfish ambition and the heart of the servant.  The former we have seen in the parable of the workers in the vineyard (20:1-16) and in the attitude of the disciples in 20:23-29.  The call to servanthood follows in the remainder of Matt. 21.

On the other hand, we should note that Jesus has taught and illustrated servanthood throughout His ministry.  It’s another thing the disciples have had a hard time getting hold of.  While it is the mother of James and John who makes the request (v21), the sons are in on it (v22), and the other disciples know this and are upset because they didn’t think of such a great plan to promote their own position in the coming kingdom (v24).  And Jesus knows it (v26-28).  He addresses all of them. 

Partly for the purpose of reviewing, consider these quotes from Matthew 18-19 and how they demonstrate the disciples concern for greatness as well as Jesus concern that they learn humility.

·        18:1: Who then is greatest in the K of Heaven?

·        18:21: How often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?

·        19:10:  If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry.

·        19:13: The disciples rebuked (the little children).

·        19:25: Who then can be saved (if not the rich)?

·        19:27: See, we have left all and followed You. Therefore, what shall we have?

·        19:21:  Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on the left, in Your kingdom.

·        19:22: We are able.

·        19:24: The ten were greatly displeased with the two brothers.

If we were to replay our conversations from yesterday or any day in recent memory, how many hints of greatness or lack of the heart of a servant would we see?  It is, after all, the way people commonly think (v25).  Who are the great people in our world?  The ones most often spoken of are perhaps politicians, or the rich and famous who have become rich and famous by pursuing riches and fame.  Do we tend to talk a lot about the mechanic down the street who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it, but whose name you have a hard time remembering?  No.  We might only talk about him when we need his shirt. 

I would ask of myself and of you, when you think of the greatness of our Savior, is it in light of the great things that He did on this earth?  Or is it in terms of His humility, His servant heart and life?  What did He consider important (v28)?