The disciples know at this point that Jesus is the Christ of God. They are all expecting the kingdom of God to be established on earth at any moment but in reading Luke 9:37-62, a statement of Jesus contrast with their expectations. Jesus says “Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men (v. 44).”

The disciples marveled at everything Jesus did. They knew He had great power because they had witnessed the miracles and He had just healed a boy with an evil spirit but they misunderstood the kingdom of God. They then began to compete against each other and an argument broke out as to who would be the greatest among them.

At this point, Jesus took a small child and told the disciples, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me: and whoever welcomes me welcomes the ONE who sent me. For he who is least among you all – he is the greatest (v. 48).” The lesson is that greatness is achieved through humility because then there is sincerity and a dependence on God. 

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Then John told Jesus that they had seen a man driving out demons in His name and that they were trying to stop the man because he was not a part of their group. Jesus told John, “Do not stop him.” Jesus said, “For whoever is not against you is for you (v. 50).” 

Jesus was explaining about priorities and that fulfilling God’s purpose is more important than other matters in life. Significance is more important than survival (v. 46-47), serving is more important than being served (v. 48-49), and stepping up to the plate is more important than staying put and playing it safe (v. 59-62).

The competition we face in this world is between good and evil. It is not between other groups simply because they are different. We should appreciate and affirm others who stand for good. Father God, we pray today to have the right attitude and not compete against other groups but work together against the evil we face in this world. This day with You, remind us that everyone has tremendous value in Your eyes.