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Book of Luke - Chapter 22 - Verse 26

22:26
But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.

Meaning

In this verse, Jesus is teaching his disciples about true leadership. He emphasizes that in his kingdom, greatness is not measured by power or authority, but rather by humility and servanthood. He challenges his followers to adopt a mindset of humility, urging them to consider themselves as young or lowly, regardless of their position or title. Jesus sets the example by portraying himself as the ultimate servant, even washing the feet of his disciples. By encouraging his disciples to follow his example, Jesus is highlighting the importance of selflessness and putting others above oneself. This teaching is a powerful reminder that true greatness lies in serving others and humbly fulfilling one's responsibilities, rather than seeking recognition or status. It is a call to shift one's focus from personal ambitions to the needs of others, embodying the values of love and compassion that Jesus exemplified throughout his ministry.

Theological Overview

The verse in question, taken from the book of Luke, holds a significant theological interpretation that emphasizes humility and servanthood. Jesus is instructing his disciples to avoid seeking positions of power and authority, common practices in the society of that time. Instead, he urges them to adopt a mindset of humility and service, where the greatest among them should act as the youngest and the chief as the one who serves. This teaching highlights the importance of putting others' needs before one's own and serving with a humble heart. The word study of "greatest" and "chief" in this verse reveals a call to leadership rooted in servanthood rather than domination, a stark contrast to the leadership style prevalent in the world. By promoting humility and service, Jesus is challenging his followers to embody a different standard of greatness, one that reflects the values of the Kingdom of God.

American Standard Version

But ye [shall] not [be] so: but he that is the greater among you, let him become as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.
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