Who Is the Greatest?

Alex Johnston | Click/tap here to view the Sermon Reflection Guide.

We live in a world obsessed with greatness, which is measured by success, influence, recognition, and achievement. Whether through social media, career status, or personal accomplishments, we are constantly evaluating where we stand compared to others. Like the disciples, we often ask, “Who is the greatest?” or, more personally, “How can I be great?”

In Matthew 18, Jesus responds to this question in a way that challenges our assumptions. Instead of pointing to power or prestige, he places a child in their midst and says that true greatness begins with humility. In Jesus’ day, children had no status, no power, and no influence. They were overlooked and dependent. Yet Jesus says that unless we “turn” and become like them, we cannot even enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3-5).

In God’s kingdom, greatness isn’t found in climbing higher but in going lower—serving others, especially the vulnerable and overlooked. At the same time, Jesus warns that chasing worldly greatness can leave a trail of wounded people behind. True discipleship requires a radical reorientation that sees others as image-bearers and reshapes how we think, act, and relate.

Ultimately, Jesus points to the cross as the clearest picture of greatness. He did not grasp for power but gave himself away in sacrificial love. To follow him is to take up our cross by laying down our crown, embracing humility, and becoming people marked by sacrificial love.