Jesus, the Servant King

Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies about the coming Messiah by coming to earth. He did not come as the conquering king that the people expected, but as a servant, keeping the fact that he was the Messiah a secret. Eventually Jesus would reign as King of kings and Lord of lords, but first he would reveal himself as the suffering Servant. Jesus served by telling people about God, healing them, and giving his life as the atoning sacrifice for their sins. Jesus suffered by being born into a poor family and being tempted, questioned, rejected, falsely accused and convicted, beaten, hit, spat upon, tortured, mocked, and crucified. Giving his life and becoming sin (though he was sinless) on the cross was the ultimate act of suffering and service.

Jesus taught and lived that “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever want to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man [Himself] did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:43-45, NIV).

Important for Today. Those who claim Christ as Saviour and Lord should follow his example by serving God and others. Real greatness in Christ’s Kingdom is shown by service and sacrifice. Instead of being motivated by ambition or love of power or position (as is true with most people), we should do God’s work because we love him and his creation.

What does it mean for you to be a servant?

What can you do to serve God today?

To whom in your home, neighbourhood, school, place of employment,

Or church can you give a “cup of water” (Mark 9:41) in His name?

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

Taken and edited from Life Application Bible Commentary: Mark (Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.: Carol Stream, Illinois, 1994), Introduction.  Title above mine.