Competitive Spirits

"At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them,  3and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.  4Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me".  Matthew 18:1-5  NKJV

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     crossorigin="anonymous"></script>We must realise fully, that when people are filled with themselves, they cannot be filled with the Holy Spirit. The disciples had it all wrong; they thought Jesus would remove Rome's yoke and bring an earthly kingdom that would restore Israel to prominence - a kingdom in which the disciples expected to be given high profile positions. They were looking at rank and status and wrestling with who would get the best job. But the Kingdom of heaven is spiritual not political, and would be run on different standards to what an earthly one is.

Jesus was quick to change their thinking. People who expect to be great in the Kingdom of God, should be willing to be as humble as a young child. There should be no competitiveness within 

the church and most definitely in the Kingdom of God.

One can understand the disciple's thinking. They had not fully grasped the principles of Kingdom business and what Jesus' role was. Therefore, if Jesus was going to come into His Kingdom, as they were His 'top men' surely they would have some important role and, one of the them would be in charge of the others. 

This can be a delicate subject within the church today. A pastor may be appointed to a church, but in some places, there may be some people who consider they have a certain standing within the church and may try to usurp the new pastor, causing problems behind his back. I remember one pastor friend, who was sent to a 'problem church.' On the first Sunday evening, he told the church exactly what he intended to do, asked the present elders and deacons to step down and then said to the congregation, 'All of those who agree with what I intend to do, please remain in your seats; those who don't agree, please leave now.' Three quarters of the congregation left the church and the new pastor addressed those who remained. 'Right, let's start building our church.' And he did, and the church became one of the most successful of churches in the area.

There is no room for a competitive spirit within the church of God. If you struggle with this, please seek help from a trusted Christian friend or submit to God. Be humble, as Jesus was humble.

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned   

I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

Copyright 2024 Grahame Howard.                                

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