MARK 10:41-45

MARK 10:41-45

MARK 10:41-45 - “When the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased.” The other disciples also had desires for prominence, and they were indignant that John and James had sought to obtain the highest offices, thus forestalling them. 

  “Their great ones exercise authority upon them.” It was very difficult for the disciples to dissociate the thought of a kingdom from positions of prominence for themselves. But the kingdom of which Jesus Christ is Lord is a kingdom of love, where all are to seek the blessing of others, and lowly service takes the place of haughty authority. The kingdoms of the nations are not like this. There the great lord it over those of lesser degree. 

“But so shall it not be among you.” In the kingdom of God the very opposite rule prevails. Those whose greatness is recognized by heaven are those who labor for the blessing of their fellows.

“Whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.” Our Lord Himself is the preeminent example here. He who was Lord of all became servant of all, that men might be brought to God. We are called to follow in His steps.

“The Son of Man came … to give His life a ransom for many.” He left the glory of the Father’s side, and came into this world, becoming Man in order that He might die. Never once did He seek recognition from men. He was content to be despised and rejected, in order that He might accomplish His great mission of redemption. Dare we, who owe everything for eternity to His humiliation, aspire to worldly honor and seek the approbation of our fellows rather than the approval of God?