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Walking in Faith: Trusting God's Plan
The Greatness of the World vs. The Greatness of God's Kingdom

The Greatness of the World vs. The Greatness of God's Kingdom

Pastor Brandon Sato
December 17, 2022

Opening and Welcome

Hey everyone! How’s everyone doing today? Before we get started, I just want to say—whether you’ve been a Christian for years, are just exploring faith, or even if you don’t believe in God at all, you are welcome here.

Before we dive in, let’s do a quick sound check. Can everyone hear me okay? Let me know in the comments. Oh, looks like we had a little technical issue with the audio—thanks for your patience!

Alright, today we’re diving into an exciting topic: What does it mean to be great?

The world has one definition of greatness, but God’s Kingdom has a completely different one. And today, we’re going to compare the two.

Are you ready? If so, drop a "ready!" in the chat!

Who is Considered Great in the World?

Let's start by asking a simple question:

What kind of people are considered "great" in the world?

Think about it. Who are the people that society looks up to?

  • Some say it’s those who have wealth—the rich and successful.
  • Others say it’s those with power—politicians, CEOs, world leaders.
  • Some say it’s those with talent—athletes, celebrities, influencers.
  • And in some cases, it's those who contribute to society in major ways—scientists, innovators, and philanthropists.

Society tells us that if you have more, you’re great. The more money, power, fame, or intelligence you have, the higher your status.

And because of this, many people chase after these things, believing that if they achieve them, they’ll finally feel fulfilled.

But let me ask you—do you think that’s really true?

The Reality of Worldly Success

We see it time and time again. People reach the top—whether in business, entertainment, or politics—but instead of feeling fulfilled, many still feel empty.

Some of the wealthiest people in history have admitted that, even after achieving everything they wanted, they still felt like something was missing.

That’s because worldly greatness is temporary. It’s built on things that don’t last.

But God’s Kingdom has a completely different perspective on greatness.

What Does It Mean to Be Great in God’s Kingdom?

Jesus spoke directly about this in Matthew 20:25-28:

"Jesus called them together and said, 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.’”

Did you catch that?

In the world, the great ones are served. But in God’s Kingdom, the great ones serve.

This is a radical shift in thinking.

While the world says, "Climb higher so people can serve you," Jesus says, "Lower yourself so you can serve others."

And Jesus didn’t just teach this—He lived it.

Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Greatness

Think about who Jesus spent time with.

Did He surround Himself with kings, wealthy merchants, or powerful politicians? No.

  • He chose fishermen, tax collectors, and outcasts as His disciples.
  • He spent time with the sick, the broken, and the rejected.
  • He knelt down and washed His disciples’ feet—a task reserved for the lowest servants.

And ultimately, He gave His own life for us.

This is the kind of greatness that lasts forever.

How to Become Great in God’s Kingdom

Jesus gives us a clear roadmap for true greatness. It’s built on three things:

1. Serving Others with Humility

Jesus said in Matthew 23:11-12:

"The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."

If you want to be great in God’s Kingdom, stop trying to impress people and start serving people.

True greatness comes from humility. It’s not about how many people know your name, but how many lives you impact.

2. Putting Others Before Yourself

Philippians 2:3-4 says:

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others."

This doesn’t mean thinking less of yourself—it means thinking of yourself less.

When we put others first, we reflect the heart of Christ.

3. Investing in People Who Can’t Repay You

Luke 14:12-14 says:

"When you give a banquet, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed."

The world teaches us to invest in people who can give us something in return. But Jesus teaches us to invest in those who have nothing to give back.

That’s true greatness.

Why Does This Matter?

Because the things of this world—money, fame, power—are temporary. They will all fade away.

But the impact you make in people’s lives by serving them, loving them, and pointing them to Christ—that lasts forever.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:19-20:

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven."

Every act of kindness, every moment you spend serving others, every life you touch in Jesus’ name—it all matters for eternity.

Closing Challenge

So here’s my challenge for you today:

  • Stop chasing worldly success and start seeking Kingdom greatness.
  • Look for ways to serve the people around you—even when it’s inconvenient.
  • Be generous with your time, your resources, and your love—especially toward those who can’t repay you.

Because when you serve, you reflect Jesus.

If this message spoke to you today, and you want to commit to living for Kingdom greatness, let me know in the comments. Type “I’m in” and let’s pray together.

Prayer:
"Jesus, thank You for showing us the true meaning of greatness. Help us to let go of pride and selfishness, and teach us to serve others with love and humility. May we live for Your Kingdom, not for ourselves. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Let’s live with purpose. Let’s live for Kingdom greatness.

Amen.