An Unholy Alliance
Opening Prayer
God knows you absolutely and loves you absolutely! Spend a few moments now thanking God for this great truth.
Read LUKE 22:24-38
[24] Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. [25] Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. [26] But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. [27] For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. [28] You are those who have stood by me in my trials. [29] And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, [30] so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. [31] “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. [32] But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” [33] But he replied, “Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.” [34] Jesus answered, “I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me.” [35] Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered. [36] He said to them, “But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. [37] It is written: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors’; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment.” [38] The disciples said, “See, Lord, here are two swords.” “That is enough,” he replied. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What does Jesus teach about the way to true greatness?There have been moments in my life when friends have known me better than I have known myself. It’s always a surprise, and usually comes at significant times! So imagine Simon Peter’s reaction when Jesus foretells his upcoming denial. Peter assures him of his allegiance and loyalty, even to the point of prison and death (33). But Jesus is in another league altogether with his direct revelation of knowledge. With honesty and a prayerful heart, he unveils before Peter and the other disciples a series of near-term events in a compellingly prophetic and practical way (34-38). It’s a wonderful display of how Jesus loves!
Earlier, the disciples had argued about the qualifications for greatness, and with more than words, Jesus models his verbal response (27-30). Aware of his own imminent journey, Jesus maintains a selfless focus on their journey. He continues to equip them for the road they are about to travel by revealing essential facts about the nature of the kingdom of God. Moving to the cross, Jesus not only reveals his wealth of knowledge with immense compassion, he also turns the tables on greatness and makes the servant a King!
Apply
Contrast the way of the world with the nature of the kingdom of God. How does your life model true greatness?
Closing prayer
Lord, it’s not easy for me, but I want to share Jesus’ servant spirit and be truly great in Your eyes.
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