Matt 18 “A True Kingdom Disciple”

Matt 18 mirrorSometimes when an argument erupts and there appears to be no solution, a mediator is brought into the equation. We stop and wonder why the disciples are arguing about greatness when the greatest sits before them and three of them having just experienced his transfiguration! We want to say why are you even thinking about this question! [see Luke 9 ]And so it boils down this; “Let’s let Jesus settle this.” Jesus reveals that is not “who” is the greatest but “the one” who lives and acts by the principles and attitudes that reflect the character of God. Thus true kingdom people are humble as a child and/or welcomes a child in the name of Jesus; are not a stumbling block, pray and seek those who are the lost sheep; demonstrate true justice and compassion for others even if they have harmed you; forgive as God has forgiven you from your heart.

In a nutshell we might say to be great in God’s kingdom is to mirror God in all we think, say and do otherwise we are like the evil slave who being forgiven refused to forgive another who owed a debt to him. Perhaps that is why James wrote: “By his sovereign plan he gave us birth through the message of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.” [James 1] Perhaps we should stop in the hallway of God’s Word; look into His mirror and see what is reflected back to us. Then when we know what do, follow his words “go and do likewise” making decisions based upon that reflection. James warns us that there will be those who look, see and purposefully walk away forgetting what God has revealed to them. The warning is given: ‘So whoever knows what is good to do and does not do it is guilty of sin.’ [James 4]

What is your mirror showing today? Can you say you are one of the “greatest” in the kingdom? Dr. Luke reminds us: Luk 22:26 the one who is greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like the one who serves.

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *