When the Least is the Greatest
By
Shelby G. Floyd
Who is the Greatest?
Once an argument started among the disciples as to who would be
the greatest. Jesus who knew the hearts of men, took a little child and had him
placed beside him. Thus a child of no honor is raised to a place of honor by
Christ. Then Jesus made this application to his disciples and to us: “Whoever
receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives
him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.”
(Luke 9:48).
God Gives Grace to
the Humble
A child usually does not seek prominence. A child is humble, dependent, and trusting.
Christ wants all of us to have the character of a little child: Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another,
because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble
yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due
time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:5-7).
“In the Name of
Christ”
Some adults do not care much about receiving little children. They do
not want to be bothered with them because often they are (1) unkempt, (2)
misbehaving, and (3) displeasing. We are
to receive little children, and adults who sometimes act worse than little
children “in the name of Christ.” To receive them “in the name of Christ” means
we seek to teach and train them so they will grow and mature and then enter
into salvation and the church. (Acts 4:10-12). This means we are to serve
Christ and meet their needs—their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
(Luke. 22:26-27).
Be Faithful in Little or Much
We commend all teachers who so faithfully receive and teach the little children
and young people and adults “in the name of Christ.” “Whoever
can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is
dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” (Luke 16:10). Copyright © 2006 by Preach the Word