Status

Our next section in our pursuit of the mind of Christ is recorded in Matthew 18:1-5; Mark 9:33-37; Luke 9:46-48.Take a moment to read these please. The location of this is in the house in Capernaum, assuming it is Peter and Andrew's house. Leading up to this scene is Jesus with Peter, James, and John on the long trek up and down the mount of Transfiguration, preceded by the discussion about who people say He is, the correct answer of Peter, and the rebuke of Peter. Jesus has a discussion with Peter, James and John on the way down Hermon about his death, burial and resurrection. On arriving at the base of the mountain Jesus confronts the most horrible scene of his ministry, the boy who has a particular malevolent demon, and the nine's inability to cast him out. Now on the way back to Capernaum He discusses with the twelve more about his death, burial and resurrection. On arriving back in Capernaum Jesus and Peter handle the tax matter. Now our current scene.

The scene seems to have unfolded thus: 1) The disciples were quietly discussing who is the greatest "on the way". I assume on the way from Caesarea Philippi back to Capernaum, a considerable distance. 2) Jesus knew what they were thinking in their heart. 3) He brings it up and asks them what they were saying "on the way." 4) Initially they kept silent. 5) Finally someone tells him-perhaps knowing that He already knew. 6) Jesus addresses their question by calling a little child as an illustration. Now how might the discussion have been going? Peter: There were some pretty wild things happening on the mountain while I was with Jesus, but I can't tell you about them. Others: Sure Peter you always think you are the special disciple. He never called one of us Satan. John: Well, I was up on the mountain with Jesus too and Jesus told me He loved me. James: Come on John, He tells everyone He loves them. Peter: You "nine" are losers. You couldn't even cast out one little demon. Others: Well Peter I didn't see you stepping up to get rid of it. Peter: Well He didn't pay your temple tax. Far fetched? I think not. Pretty petty? Yep.

So what is this "greatest" thing about? Only Matthew tells us about it being kingdom related. "Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" But "greatest" how? Rank? Apostolic power or credentials? As in who is closest to Jesus? Or the best exorcist? Or who has the most knowledge? Who is the "right hand man?" Later James and John lobbies Jesus for seats of honor for her sons. Do they have visions of Joseph or Daniel, men who enjoyed important roles in foreign governments? "Greatest" implies status, a word of Latin origin meaning to stand. All cultures put special importance to who is close to the seat of power and authority. Who does the president talk to? Who has the most influence with the king? Who has his confidence? Why are we surprised these men with feet of clay who are beginning to understand the greatness of the kingdom of heaven and the greatness of Jesus the Messiah would have such a discussion and have such a desire to be the greatest too? Status in Jesus' circle rears its head. Jesus must stomp on its head quickly lest this idea destroy His kingdom.