Welcome to the “But first, Bible” daily devotional podcast with Dave Miers.
Our readings for today are Numbers 34-36 and Mark 10:32-52.
This is our last day in the book of Numbers – and tomorrow we begin the book of Deuteronomy. That means this is a perfect time to encourage others to either start or get back on track with this plan.
Today we will focus in on the second half of Mark 10 and in it we will learn the difference between greatness in the kingdoms of this world compared to greatness in the kingdom of God.
Let me read from Mark 10:35–44,
[35] And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” [36] And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” [37] And they said to him, “Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” [38] Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” [39] And they said to him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, [40] but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” [41] And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. [42] And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. [43] But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, [44] and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. (ESV)
James and John – they want to be great! That’s why they ask to sit at the right and left hand of Jesus in glory! They recognise something of the importance of Jesus – hence the request. But they’ve still misunderstood what greatness looks like.
The other ten disciples are angry about James and John. Are they angry that James and John have misunderstood the kingdom of God? Not at all! They are angry that James and John got in before them!
Jesus uses this moment to teach them how countercultural it is to be part of his kingdom. The kingdoms of the world exercise authority through might and power and harsh rule. Jesus says this is not the way of His kingdom.
Do you want to be great? Then be a servant, be a slave. Rather than elevating yourself, seek to put others ahead of yourself.
This is non-negotiable in the kingdom of God.
Interestingly, this interchange comes straight after Jesus has just foretold of his death and resurrection in vv33-34, and then again in verse 45 he shows that he practices what he preaches. Jesus is the ultimate example of servant-hearted leadership.
Let me close with Mark 10:45,
[45] For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (ESV)
Until tomorrow, keep trusting Jesus.