In Matthew 18:1–5, Jesus teaches about greatness and the virtues of humility that define true greatness. His teachings remind us of what truly matters.
The way up in God’s kingdom is down in humility. Jesus demonstrates lessons on greatness by turning conventional wisdom upside down.
In Matthew 18:1–5, Jesus flips the world’s definition of greatness by showing that it begins not in strength or status, but in the heart of a child. This is how Jesus reveals the essence of greatness.
Matthew 18:1–5 (NASB 2020)
1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and said, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2 And He called a child to Himself and set him among them, 3 and said, “Truly I say to you, unless you change and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 So whoever will humble himself like this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 And whoever receives one such child in My name, receives Me;
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- His disciples, who were concerned with rank and recognition
- Future believers, tempted by ambition and self-promotion
What Happened?
- The disciples asked about their status in the kingdom
- Jesus responded by calling a child and placing him in their midst
- He taught that entrance into the kingdom requires a change of heart and illustrated His teachings on true greatness through humility.
- Humility, not hierarchy, marks true greatness
The Mood: Gentle, Corrective, Transformative
- The disciples were curious and perhaps competitive
- Jesus was kind but clear
- His teaching reoriented their values
The Principle: Greatness Is Measured by Humility
- Kingdom greatness is not measured in power, but in dependence on God
- True followers must become teachable, trusting, and humble
- Receiving others in childlike faith is receiving Christ Himself
Audience Response (Then)
- The disciples were challenged to reevaluate their thinking as they learned important lessons on greatness from Jesus.
- There’s no recorded rebuttal—Jesus’ illustration was powerful and clear
What This Means for Us in 2025
The pursuit of greatness in 2025 is often marked by achievement, wealth, and influence. But in the kingdom, the truly great are:
- Those who know they need help
- Those who are quick to trust and obey
- Those who don’t care who gets the credit
Becoming like a child is not weakness; it’s kingdom strength.
Action Steps for Today
- Repent of prideful ambition. Let God redefine success.
- Practice humility daily. Look for low places to serve.
- Receive others as you would Christ. Especially the overlooked.
- Stay teachable. Ask God to help you remain childlike in faith.
- Celebrate hidden obedience. It counts most in heaven.
Final Prayer
Jesus, I confess the world has shaped my view of greatness. But You call me to become like a child—humble, teachable, and dependent. Help me to embrace that posture, and to receive others with Your love. Use my life not for self-promotion, but for kingdom glory. Amen.
To be great in God’s eyes, start by going low. This is central to understanding Jesus’ teachings on greatness.
