“…the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever HUMBLES HIMSELF AS THIS LITTLE CHILD IS THE GREATEST in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:1-4) Jesus said this as well about children, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have REVEALED THEM TO LITTLE CHILDREN.” (Matthew 11:25)
What is it we should learn from children? What qualities do they possess and what examples do they demonstrate that can HELP US in our own spiritual development? These precious children of God come to us with believing hearts. They are full of faith and receptive to feelings of the Spirit. They exemplify humility, obedience, and love. They are often the first to love and the first to forgive.
Jesus uses this opportunity to restate some of His most common points about GODLY LEADERSHIP.
Like children, kingdom-minded leaders shouldn’t be,
- competing for position,
- looking to have power over others,
- worrying about how people view them.
They should very simply and humbly serve God by serving others. “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” (Phil. 2:3-5)
-Bill Stockham