People of the Word
The Greatest
Pastor Bryan Yeo
October 6, 2024

MARK 9:30-37

Review: Following Jesus is a life of

and .


What does Jesus have to say about greatness?


The debate
• In the 1st century Ancient Near East, debate was a practice in the public square.
• The disciples were perhaps spurred by two events: Jesus’ inner three witnessing the transfiguration and the other disciples’ failure to perform a miracle.
• Children had the social status, no rights, no social capital, and could be regarded as those that “did not matter” in the eyes of the world.


Jesus commanded his followers to receive the least and the last.
• The Greek word translated “welcome” (vs. 37) means to extend .
• Extending hospitality is a theme throughout the Scriptures: Genesis 18:1-5; Mark 2:13-17; Luke 24; Hebrews 13:2.


Humility and true greatness
• When we welcome the and the , we welcome Jesus.
• How do I treat those who have no social capital?
• Do I always try to “get mine”?
• Are we a sacrificially hospitable congregation?