What does it take to become “great” in God’s eyes? You might think it’s knowing a lot of religious information or doing a lot more good than wrong. But the answer that Jesus gave on how to become great just might surprise you.

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MESSAGE NOTES

[John 13:3-5]

“Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.”

 

JESUS SHOWED HUMILITY

 

JESUS TOOK INITIATIVE

 

[Luke 22:24-27]

“Then they began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them. Jesus told them, “In this world the kings and great men lord it over their people, yet they are called ‘friends of the people.’ But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. Who is more important, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? The one who sits at the table, of course. But not here! For I am among you as one who serves.”

 

JESUS SET AN EXAMPLE

 

[John 13:12-17]

“After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them.”

 

Your gifts, your abilities, your money, your time, and your influence are all gifts given to you by God. 

 

If you’re a follower of Jesus, what are doing with your time/money/talent/influence that you could say was a gift to God, his Church or his plan for the world?

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Application Questions

1. What stood out to you from this message and why?

2. What is one thing God is telling you to START doing because of this message?

3. What is one thing God is telling you to STOP doing because of this message?

4. How will this message change how you act at home, work and in the your relationships?