Luke 9:46

Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.

Then {G1161} there arose {G1525} a reasoning {G1261} among {G1722} them {G846}, which {G5101}{G302} of them {G846} should be {G1498} greatest {G3187}.

An argument arose among the talmidim as to which of them might be the greatest.

Then an argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest.

And there arose a reasoning among them, which of them was the greatest.

Commentary

Luke 9:46 KJV describes a revealing moment among Jesus' disciples, exposing their human struggle with pride and ambition even while in the presence of the Messiah. The verse states, "Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest." This brief line captures a significant tension between worldly aspirations and the true nature of God's kingdom.

Context

This discussion among the disciples occurs immediately after Jesus has delivered His second prophecy concerning His impending suffering, death, and resurrection (Luke 9:44). Despite Jesus' clear teaching about His mission of self-sacrifice, the disciples were "slow to understand" (Luke 9:45) and were instead preoccupied with their own status and position within an imagined earthly kingdom. This highlights the stark contrast between Jesus' divine perspective and the disciples' very human, earthly concerns.

Key Themes

  • Worldly Ambition vs. Spiritual Values: The core issue in Luke 9:46 is the disciples' focus on personal prominence and power. This contrasts sharply with Jesus' consistent teaching on humility, service, and self-denial. They were thinking in terms of hierarchical structures typical of human societies, rather than the upside-down values of God's kingdom.
  • Misunderstanding Jesus' Kingdom: The disciples, like many of their contemporaries, likely expected a political messiah who would overthrow Roman rule and establish an earthly kingdom with positions of power for His followers. Their "reasoning" about who would be "greatest" reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the spiritual and servant-hearted nature of the Kingdom of God.
  • The Nature of True Greatness: This verse sets the stage for Jesus' subsequent teaching on what true greatness entails. He addresses their dispute directly, not by identifying the "greatest," but by redefining greatness through humility and service, using a child as an object lesson (Luke 9:47-48).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "reasoning" comes from the Greek word dialogismos (διαλογισμός), which implies an internal debate, a deliberation, or even a dispute. It suggests not just a casual thought, but an active discussion and contention among the disciples about who held the highest rank or prestige. This "reasoning" was not about understanding God's will but about asserting personal status.

Related Scriptures

This account is paralleled in other Gospels, indicating it was a recurring issue among the disciples. Similar disputes about who would be greatest are found in Matthew 18:1-5 and Mark 9:33-37. Jesus consistently taught that true greatness is found in humility and service, as He later demonstrated through His own life and ultimately, His sacrifice (Mark 10:43-45).

Practical Application

Luke 9:46 serves as a powerful reminder that human nature, even among dedicated followers, is prone to pride and self-interest. It challenges believers today to examine their own motives in service and leadership. Are we seeking personal recognition or genuinely desiring to serve God and others? True greatness in God's eyes is not about position, power, or prestige, but about a humble heart willing to become a servant to all, reflecting the very character of Christ.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 18:1 (9 votes)

    ¶ At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?

  • Matthew 18:5 (9 votes)

    And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

  • Mark 9:33 (6 votes)

    And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?

  • Mark 9:37 (6 votes)

    Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.

  • Matthew 20:20 (5 votes)

    ¶ Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping [him], and desiring a certain thing of him.

  • Matthew 20:22 (5 votes)

    But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.

  • Philippians 2:3 (5 votes)

    [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.