Kingdom Greatness: Redefining What It Means to Be Great

In a world where greatness is often measured by fame, wealth, athletic prowess, and outward success, Jesus offers a radically different vision—one rooted in humility, obedience, and service.

When the disciples asked Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” (Matthew 18:1), they were expecting a name, a rank, a position. Instead, Jesus called a little child to stand among them and said, “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (v. 3). This single moment redefined the criteria for greatness—not as exaltation, but as submission.

The World’s Idea of Greatness vs. the Kingdom’s

Today’s society promotes greatness through status—fame, fortune, and public acclaim. Athletes and celebrities become icons not just for talent, but for their bravado. Yet, Jesus never applauded such displays. In fact, He taught that the truly great are not those who promote themselves but those who humble themselves as little children (Matthew 18:4).

Where the world celebrates self-promotion, Jesus demands self-denial. Where the world honors those with riches and accolades, Christ esteems those who obey and teach His word (Matthew 5:19). Kingdom greatness begins with humble obedience—not applause.

Obedience and Teaching: The Path to Spiritual Greatness

The first mark of true greatness in God’s kingdom is unwavering obedience to His word. Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15), and “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words... the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day” (John 12:48).

The next mark is sharing that truth. It’s not enough to simply obey; Jesus taught that greatness also belongs to those who teach others to do likewise (Matthew 5:19). This means our role as parents, teachers, elders, or everyday Christians becomes sacred when we faithfully guide others in God’s truth.

The Humility of Christ: Our Ultimate Example

Christ didn’t tell His disciples not to aspire to greatness—He simply redefined it. Instead of striving for fame or recognition, we are called to serve with humility. “He that is least among you all, the same shall be great” (Luke 9:48).

Paul explains Christ’s humility beautifully in Philippians 2:5–8: Though equal with God, Jesus “made himself of no reputation” and “became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Because of that humility and obedience, God “highly exalted him” (v. 9).

True Greatness Is Measured by God

Biblical greatness is not found in headlines or history books—it’s found in obedience, service, and humility:

• Obedience to God's Word – Doing what God commands, not what pleases the crowd.

• Service to Others – Pouring ourselves out for the benefit of others, just as Christ did for us.

• Humility Before God – Realizing that greatness comes through surrender, not success.

Let us not be conformed to the world’s vision of greatness but transformed by the example of Christ. If we humble ourselves, obey God’s word, and teach others to do the same, we will be truly great—not in the eyes of man, but in the eternal kingdom of God.