Luke 9:46 – “An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest.”
Extended Explanation
This verse reveals a moment of human weakness among Jesus’ disciples. As they travel with Jesus, they begin arguing over who among them is the greatest. This argument likely stems from their desire to be recognized, valued, and given a high position in what they still believed would be an earthly kingdom led by Jesus. Despite everything Jesus has been teaching them—especially about humility, service, and His upcoming suffering—the disciples still have a mindset shaped by worldly ideas of power and status.
This moment shows that even those who walked closely with Jesus struggled with pride and self-centeredness. They hadn’t yet fully understood that Jesus’ mission wasn’t about establishing an earthly kingdom of political power but about serving others and bringing salvation through sacrifice.
Historical Context
In the cultural context of the time, honor and social status were extremely important. The Jewish people lived in a society where religious leaders, kings, and wealthy individuals were highly respected, and many people sought positions of influence. The disciples, who believed Jesus was the Messiah, likely assumed that He would soon establish His reign, and they wanted to know how they fit into this new kingdom.
The disciples’ argument also shows that they misunderstood Jesus’ recent teachings about His suffering and death (Luke 9:22, 44). Instead of reflecting on His prediction of betrayal and crucifixion, they were focused on their own ambitions. This moment demonstrates the disconnect between their expectations and Jesus’ actual mission.
Theological Implications
- Pride and Ambition Are Obstacles to Spiritual Growth – The disciples’ argument highlights how pride can blind people to God’s purposes. Instead of focusing on serving others, they were focused on promoting themselves.
- True Greatness Comes Through Humility – Later in this passage, Jesus will teach them that the greatest in His kingdom is the one who humbles themselves and serves others. This teaching challenges worldly ideas of leadership and greatness.
- God’s Kingdom Operates Differently from the World – In the world, greatness is often defined by status, wealth, or power. But in God’s kingdom, greatness is defined by humility, love, and service.
Literary Analysis
Luke places this argument right after Jesus’ prediction of His betrayal (Luke 9:44-45) to show the disciples’ lack of understanding. The contrast between Jesus’ self-sacrificial mission and the disciples’ self-centered argument highlights their need for spiritual growth. The disciples’ concern about greatness is not unique to this moment; it’s a recurring theme in the Gospels, showing that pride was an ongoing struggle for them.
The phrase “an argument started” suggests that this wasn’t a minor disagreement but a heated discussion, indicating that their desire for recognition ran deep. Luke’s narrative structure often presents moments of failure or misunderstanding as opportunities for Jesus to teach important lessons about His kingdom.
Biblical Cross-References
- Mark 10:35-45 – James and John ask Jesus for positions of honor, leading Jesus to teach about servant leadership.
- Matthew 18:1-4 – The disciples ask Jesus who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, and He responds by pointing to the humility of a child.
- Luke 22:24-27 – Another argument about greatness occurs during the Last Supper, and Jesus teaches that the greatest must be like one who serves.
- Philippians 2:3-4 – Paul teaches believers to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit” and to value others above themselves.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that the struggle for recognition and status is not unique to the disciples—it’s a human issue that continues today. Many people, even within the church, can be tempted to seek positions of influence or validation from others instead of focusing on serving God and others. Jesus’ response to the disciples’ argument (in the following verses) challenges Christians to redefine what greatness looks like in their lives.
For today’s believers, true greatness comes through humility, selflessness, and a heart dedicated to serving others. It’s not about climbing social or religious ladders but about following Jesus’ example of sacrificial love. This verse also encourages believers to examine their motives and ask whether their actions are driven by a desire for recognition or a genuine love for God and people.
Additionally, this verse offers hope. Just as Jesus was patient with the disciples as they wrestled with pride, He is patient with believers today. Spiritual growth is a process, and Jesus is committed to transforming His followers into people who reflect His character.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His patience with the disciples. Even though they were arguing about something that completely missed the point of Jesus’ mission, He didn’t give up on them. Instead, He used the moment as an opportunity to teach them about humility and true greatness. This shows that God is patient and gracious with His followers, even when they struggle with pride or misunderstand His plans.
God’s love is also evident in the way He redefines greatness. Instead of demanding perfection or achievements, He values humility and a servant’s heart. His love is unconditional, and He invites His followers to experience true greatness by reflecting His love and grace through acts of service.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of true greatness. While the disciples were arguing about who was the greatest, Jesus was preparing to demonstrate the ultimate act of humility—laying down His life for the sins of the world. His life, death, and resurrection redefine what it means to be great. True greatness is found in self-sacrifice, obedience to God, and love for others.
Philippians 2:5-8 describes Jesus as the one who, despite being in the form of God, humbled Himself and became obedient to death on a cross. This is the kind of greatness Jesus calls His followers to imitate. His kingdom isn’t built on worldly power but on humble, loving service.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what areas of your life do you struggle with pride or a desire for recognition?
- How can Jesus’ example of humility and service help you redefine what it means to be great?
- Are there ways you can serve others without seeking recognition or praise?
- Why do you think it was so difficult for the disciples to understand Jesus’ teachings about humility and greatness?
- How can you practice humility in your daily interactions with others, especially when faced with opportunities to promote yourself?