Who's the Greatest?
HOC3 English Service March 1, 2026
Who’s the Greatest? - Luke 22:24-30
Pastor Chang Kim
Luke 22:24-30
Introduction:
In this final dialogue with His disciples before His betrayal and arrest in the Upper Room, Jesus tells the disciple something of what His Kingship is about.
Who is the Greatest vv24-27
If we live by rules and regulations—trying to impress God with our devotion, our ministry, our piety, like the disciples, we probably waver between feeling like a betrayer who can’t keep your own standards and superstar when you do keep them for a day or two. It is probably because we are clinging to a performance-based Christianity.
The late Muhammad Ali, one of, if not the greatest boxer declared “I am the greatest!” On one occasion Ali was flying to a fight and refused to buckle his seatbelt; the flight attendant insisted but Ali said, “Superman don’t need no seatbelt.” The attendant replied, “Superman don’t need no plane.” So he buckled.
Jesus replies by reminding the disciples of two objectionable characteristics of secular rulers. First, in the ancient world when men exercised “authority” they would lord it over others. Second is inferred from Jesus’ use of the term “benefactors,” an honorary title that the government gave to princes, emperors and the gods.
Jesus is teaching them that while the kings of the Gentiles like to exercise their lordship over the people, they are careful to ensure they are called ‘benefactors’ in order to trick people into believing that what they are about are the interests of the people themselves. But it was an oppressive system that limited wealth to the privileged few, a society without freedom, without opportunity, and without love and care.
The conclusion of Jesus is that disputes concerning status should not arise in the kingdom of God, no matter what may happen in the world.
Jesus is saying His Way is a paradox. To lead, one must serve.
Napoleon once said, “Alexander and I built two of the greatest empires in the history of the world, and where are they now? Ours were based on fear. Jesus came in love and built a kingdom that grows stronger every year.”
Moody told no one, but his friend told a few people, and during the rest of the conference, different men volunteered to shine the shoes in secret
Jesus in John’s account of the Last Supper in John 13, provided a true example when He 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
Jesus said in 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.”
Who will be Honored vv28-30
In these three verses Jesus explains there will come a time of vindication and exaltation for faithful believers.
Their honor includes enjoying sharing a table with Jesus, a reference to the messianic banquet. They will fellowship with Him and sit on thrones judging Israel’s 12 tribes.
Conclusion: Within the shadow of His death, Jesus reminds us that no matter how bad the suffering, rejection and persecution, a day of vindication is coming. Even in such suffering we can find victory if we will remember the example of Jesus, especially in His suffering for us on the old rugged cross. Jesus we are to remember willingly embraced the darkest act of humiliation and He did it for us.