#preachingfromthebiblenet > Link view text: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Y-rFFXu8DYXuO2Js7gvBYudydGF25dqmtjgLrah0LhM/edit?usp=drivesdk The translation of text by AI ChatGPT: Pastor Huỳnh Christian Timothy (1954): Mark 9:30–35 True Greatness Today, May 14, 2026, in the grace of God, let us rejoice together as we read and meditate on God’s Word in Mark 9:30–35. 30 After leaving there, they passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know it, 31 because He was teaching His disciples and telling them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill Him, and after He is killed, He will rise three days later.” 32 But they did not understand this statement, and they were afraid to ask Him. 33 They came to Capernaum. When He was in the house, He asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” 34 But they kept silent, because on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. 35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” Reflection Questions: 1. Why did Jesus not want anyone to know about His presence while He was teaching the disciples about His death and resurrection? 2. Jesus spoke very clearly: the Son of Man would be delivered over, killed, and after three days rise again. Why did the disciples still not understand and remain afraid to ask Him? What makes human beings struggle to accept prophecies about suffering even when spoken plainly? 3. Right after Jesus spoke about His own death, the disciples argued about who was the greatest. What human sickness is exposed by the contrast between Jesus’ mind (focused on the cross) and the disciples’ minds (focused on status)? 4. Jesus’ question, “What were you discussing on the road?” came immediately after He foretold His death. What does the way He confronted the disciples’ rivalry teach you about handling hidden conflicts within the Church? 5. The disciples’ silence when questioned showed they knew their argument was wrong. Do you notice that you also often remain silent when confronted about unhealthy motives of competition? Does that silence help in any way? 6. Jesus’ definition of greatness completely overturns the values of the world: whoever wants to be first must be last and servant of all. How does this reversal challenge the standards of success in your society? 7. Why did Jesus specifically call the Twelve together to teach this lesson about servanthood? Is it true that those who are specially called must be even more vigilant against the temptation to seek status? Suggestions for Application: 1. Set aside one hour this week to write down your understanding of the way of the cross and the resurrection of Jesus. Then bring those reflections into prayer, asking Him to help you understand not only with your mind but also with your heart. 2. When you find it difficult to understand or feel afraid of Jesus’ teachings (as the disciples were afraid to ask), practice overcoming that fear by boldly asking Him in prayer instead of remaining silent and allowing misunderstanding to continue. 3. Pay attention to the “hidden discussions” you have with others in your family, workplace, or church. Honestly ask yourself: how much of those conversations revolve around comparison, who is better, or who receives more respect? Bring those discussions into the light before Jesus. 4. In your environment this week, intentionally choose one act of service in the “lowest place” that no one wants to do, and do it quietly as a concrete practice of the teaching: “servant of all.” 5. Whenever you desire recognition or want to become “greater” than someone else, pause and ask yourself: “How does Jesus define greatness in this passage?” Then ask Him to reshape your desires. 6. Choose one person whom you often compete with or compare yourself to, and intentionally find a way to serve that person this week (help with work, listen to them, or yield your rights). Let that action become a practical exercise in “becoming last.” 7. Examine the way you teach others (children, students, or those you mentor). In your teaching, are you unintentionally encouraging the pursuit of status more than the spirit of servanthood? Make adjustments so that the Gospel of a Suffering Savior is reflected in the very way you guide others. Reference: https://timhieuthanhkinh.com/tin-lanh-cua-duc-chua-jesus-christ-tl082-su-cao-trong-that-va-cac-su-day-do-khac/