Matthew 20:17-34 Third Demand of Our King -- Glorify Him Completely

The previous demands of the King were that we love Him supremely and obey Him unreservedly.  This section shows that we must also glorify Him completely, my commentary says.

James and John and their mother approached Jesus requesting that the two disciples get reserved seats on special thrones in Jesus' kingdom.  They at least did believe in prayer and they dared to believe the promise Jesus had given about sitting on thrones.  And it took faith to believe He would establish these thrones, sine He'd just told them He was going to die.

Yet there were also several things wrong with their request:  "They wanted their will, not God's will, and they wanted it their way ... they lacked heavenly direction.  They were thinking like the world ... Their request was fleshly, because they were selfishly asking for glory for themselves, not for the Lord ... The request was of the devil.  It was motivated by pride.  Satan had sought a throne and had been cast down."

"The key to greatness is not found in position or power, but in character.  We get a throne by paying with our lives, not by praying with our lips ... If our prayers do not bring us nearer to the cross, they are out of God's will."

"We cannot acknowledge Jesus as our King unless we love Him supremely, obey Him u, and glorify Him completely.  But if we do these things, we will share in His life and joy, and one day reign with Him!"

Father, show me if I'm lacking in any area, and help me to obey.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford