Basis of True Greatness
Matthew 20:26-28
But it shall not be so among you: but whoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;…


1. Our Lord does not condemn the spirit of ambition, but simply aims to point out the basis of real greatness. He regarded His disciples, in a certain sense, as kings, but He would have them establish their regal right in a different manner from the princes of this world.

2. In how many scriptural promises do we find this principle recognized. They that turn many to righteousness " shall shine as the stars for ever and ever:' St. Paul says, "There is laid up for me a crown of righteousness," etc.

3. Rank in the kingdom of heaven will be measured by humility. Condescension is the measure of exaltation. The way up to the glory of the Exalted One is through humble, self-denying love.

(R. W. Clark, D. D.)



Parallel Verses
KJV: But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;

WEB: It shall not be so among you, but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant.




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