The CEB Blog - May 2025

“Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him. And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great” (Luke 9:46-48). 

Jesus had been informing the disciples of his impending rejection, suffering, death and resurrection (Luke 9:22, 44). The disciples did not fully understand this, because God did not want them to understand completely, seeing that their expectation of the Messiah was a political leader instead of a suffering Savior. Not only did they misunderstand, but also, they were afraid to question Jesus further about His destiny (Luke 9:45). Their lack of understanding concerning the suffering of Jesus led them to pontificate about their own greatness. If Jesus would not be their version of the Messiah in worldly power and authority at that time, what would that mean for them? 

Jesus knew their hearts, so He illustrated true kingdom greatness for them. He presented a child, and drawing their attention to the child, He taught that whoever receives a child in His name receives Him. If a follower of Jesus wanted to be held in honor, he would minister to children and welcome them in His name. In this poignant illustration, Jesus showed that ministry to children is highly important, and serving the most vulnerable in society is a mark of kingdom greatness. 

Every child of God wants to be great in God’s estimation. Humbly serving society’s most vulnerable will not likely make one rich or famous, and it requires dedication and a willingness to be overlooked by fellow man. But God grants His favor and honor to those who faithfully minister to children, opening their eyes to the truth of God’s Word. That is what it takes to be truly great. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Mark Clements