DAY 13 | MATTHEW 18

Matthew 18:1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and said, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 

Matthew 18 begins with the disciples coming to Jesus and asking, “Who then is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” What were they really asking? Perhaps, “Which one of us do you like the most?” or, “Do rabbis have a higher seat?” They were trying to establish a pecking order. As usual, Jesus responds with an upside-down lesson. He says, “The greatest are the little children,” then reminds them not to give in to the flesh. Jesus goes on to say that they are all sheep and that he is the good shepherd, and not one of them will be left behind. Essentially, Jesus responds to their question about status by saying, “Humble yourselves, examine yourselves, and remember that I am the leader.” I’m going to repeat that, because it feels like a step-by-step process for us to follow:

In our frustration, we often ask, “Jesus, who is the greatest?” Jesus responds:

1. Humble yourselves (v. 4).

2. Examine and correct your own sin (v. 8-9).

3. Remember that I am the good shepherd, and you are all sheep, and that every single person is worthy of care and compassion (v. 12-14).

You see, Jesus has a way of reframing our heart posture. Instead of answering the question directly, he gave them a process to follow that would help reconcile their relationship with God and with one another. He gives us the same model to restore our hearts back with God and with our fellow brothers and sisters.

Use these questions to reflect on the posture of your own heart and your heart towards your fellow brothers and sisters:

1. What areas of your life do you need to be more humble? 

2. What part of your life is causing you to sin, which should you remove in order to walk more fully in the spirit?

3. Who in your life do you view as unworthy of care and compassion? Try to see that person as God sees them and move towards reconciliation today.

   
   

Kayla Whittle

LifeBack Counseling Director