Achieving Greatness Through Servanthood

As the disciples argued over status, achieving greatness through servanthood became Jesus’ clear call in Luke 22, where He redefined honor by pointing away from applause and toward humble, self-giving service.

“A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. And he said to them, … ‘Let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves’” (Luke 22:24–26).

At the conclusion of a concert at Redlands University in 1970, the audience began to applaud as bandleader Stan Kenton introduced a soloist. Kenton interrupted to convey how applauding individuals can cause a lot of emotional stress. Applause can create divisions and unhealthy competition. Kenton explained, “I once had a great band break up arguing over applause.” His preference? Applaud for the whole group.

Jesus made a similar point after the Last Supper. At this holy moment, the disciples weren’t thinking about Jesus, the Gospel, or God’s Kingdom. Instead, they were arguing about which one of them was the greatest.

They’d had this argument before. Jesus had responded by placing a child by His side and telling the disciples, “He who is least among you all is the one who is great” (Luke 9:46–48).

When they argued after the Lord’s Supper, Jesus reminded them they had the wrong focus. They were not to seek recognition or status. If they wanted to be great in His Kingdom, they needed to be servants to each other, other people, and ultimately, to Jesus Himself.

Many businesses, families, and even churches have split over who gets the credit and applause. As Jesus taught, this can be prevented if everyone thinks and acts like a servant. This applies to all of us.

Seek to be a servant in everything you do. This is the path to true greatness.

Reflection Question: Are you seeking service or applause?