Its far too easy in our world today to simply be concerned with self. We want to be GREAT, like our idols and role models found in movie stars, professional athletes, and the powerful movers and shakers in our world. However, Jesus calls us to a deeper understanding of what it means to be “Great.”
“God measures people by the small dimensions of humility and not by the bigness of their achievements or the size of their capabilities.”
– Billy Graham
Observations:
Greatness in the kingdom of God is evidenced by humility on earth
Greatness is not found in:
1. Profession
2. Authority
3. Title
4. Position
Greatness is found in:
1. Submission – 1 Peter 2:13
2. Care – 1 Peter 5:2-3
3. Humility – 1 Peter 5:5b-6
4. Service – 1 Peter 4:8-10
1 Peter 2:13
“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority”
1 Peter5:2-3
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”
1 Peter 5:5-6
“All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
1 Peter 4:8-10
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
“I am among you as one who serves” – Jesus / Luke 22:27
Application:
– The source of our failure is: Horizontal Comparison
– Set Jesus as your example – Be Like Jesus
– What can you do for others, because of what Jesus has done for you?