Ever wondered what it truly means to be great? The Bible offers profound insights into greatness, teaching us that true greatness is rooted in humility, service, and love. Join us as we explore some of the most inspiring verses that redefine what it means to be truly great in God’s eyes.
Bible Verses About Greatness
Mark 9:35
“Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’”
In Mark 9:35, Jesus turns the world’s concept of greatness on its head. To be “first,” one must be the “very last” and a servant. This verse emphasizes humility and service as key to greatness. I remember one time when I volunteered at a local shelter. Initially, I thought I was helping others, but I learned so much about compassion and humility from those I served. This experience echoed Jesus’ teaching, reminding me that true greatness lies in serving others.
Matthew 23:11
“The greatest among you will be your servant.”
Here, Jesus reiterates that greatness is found in serving others. This is a powerful reminder that titles and accolades don’t define greatness. Instead, it’s the servant’s heart that matters. When I reflect on people I admire, many are those who have selflessly given their time and resources to help others. Jesus’ words challenge us to redefine our understanding of greatness and to strive to serve others humbly.
Matthew 20:26
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
Jesus emphasizes a kingdom principle: greatness comes through service. This challenges cultural norms, where greatness is often associated with power and status. I think of my mentor, who always made time to teach and guide me despite his busy schedule. His example of servant leadership inspired me to adopt a similar approach in my own life. When we serve others, we reflect the heart of Jesus.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”
Paul’s words to the Philippians remind us that true greatness requires humility. It’s about valuing others and putting their needs before our own. During a mission trip, I worked closely with a team where we had to put aside personal ambitions to achieve a common goal. It was in valuing each other’s contributions that we accomplished much. This verse calls us to live selflessly, with a heart of humility.
Luke 1:15
“For he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born.”
This prophecy about John the Baptist speaks of his greatness in God’s sight, tied to his mission and character. Greatness from a divine perspective involves being set apart for God’s purposes. Reflecting on this, I realize that pursuing greatness means aligning my life with God’s will and staying away from distractions that can pull me away from His purpose. It’s a call to live a life dedicated to God.
Proverbs 18:12
“Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.”
This verse in Proverbs highlights the link between humility and honor. Pride often leads to a downfall, while humility precedes true honor. I’ve seen this play out in my own life; when I’ve been proud or overconfident, things didn’t go well. However, when I’ve approached situations with humility, I’ve often found them leading to positive outcomes. It’s a powerful reminder that true greatness and honor come through humility.
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
James instructs us to humble ourselves, trusting that God will exalt us in due time. This makes me think about times when I’ve tried to force my way to the top, only to realize that true elevation comes from God. By humbling myself and submitting to God’s plan, I’ve experienced His lifting in ways I couldn’t have achieved alone. This verse is a practical reminder of the power of humility and trust in God.
Matthew 18:4
“Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
Here, Jesus uses a child as an example of humility and trust. To be greatest in His kingdom, we must adopt a childlike humility, free of pride and self-importance. I remember a church service where a child prayed with such simplicity and faith, it touched everyone. This kind of humility and trust is what makes us great in God’s eyes. It invites us to let go of our ego and depend on God wholly.
1 Peter 5:6
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
Peter’s words echo a recurring theme: humility before God leads to exaltation. It’s comforting to know that God’s timing is perfect. When I rushed ahead of God’s timing, things often didn’t go well, but waiting and trusting in His time brought better outcomes. This verse encourages patience and humility, reassuring that God’s plans are worth the wait.
Luke 14:11
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
This verse teaches the inverse relationship between our self-exaltation and God’s exaltation. I’ve learned that trying to lift myself up leads to humbling experiences, whereas humility before God leads to true elevation. It’s a lesson that focusing on pride and self-promotion often backfires. However, humility before God leads to growth and genuine elevation. The wisdom in this teaching guides us towards a life of humility and faith.
Philippians 2:5-7
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.”
Paul encourages us to emulate Christ’s humility and servant nature. Despite being God, Jesus chose to humble Himself and serve others. This is the ultimate example of greatness. Reflecting on my interactions, I realize the importance of treating others with humility and care, just as Jesus did. It’s in serving others that we truly reflect His greatness. His life teaches us that greatness is marked by humility and selfless service.
Matthew 5:19
“Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”
This verse highlights obedience to God’s commands as a path to greatness. It’s not just about knowing His words but living them out and teaching others. I recall a time when I struggled to follow a challenging teaching but persevered. In doing so, I experienced spiritual growth. Living according to God’s commands and guiding others in the same way brings great rewards in His kingdom. It calls us to integrity and faithful living.
Matthew 11:11
“Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Jesus acknowledges John the Baptist’s greatness but points out that even the least in God’s kingdom is greater. This suggests a shift in understanding greatness from human standards to God’s standards. Reflecting on this, it’s a reminder that earthly achievements do not necessarily equate to greatness in God’s eyes. Pursuing His kingdom’s values of humility and service is what truly makes us great.
Jeremiah 45:5
“Should you then seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them. For I will bring disaster on all people, declares the Lord, but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life.”
Jeremiah warns against seeking personal greatness and success. The focus should instead be on God’s plans and purposes for our lives. There have been times when chasing my ambitions left me feeling unfulfilled. This verse reminds me that God’s plans are far more significant and secure. Trusting in His provision and direction brings true peace and purpose, rather than seeking personal glory.
1 Corinthians 1:27
“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.”
Paul reveals that God’s wisdom often defies worldly logic. He chooses what is considered weak or foolish to demonstrate His power. This has been evident in my own life, where unexpected and seemingly weak moments led to profound growth and strength. It’s a testament to God’s power to use our weaknesses for His glory. Greatness in God’s kingdom often looks different from what the world expects, showing His strength in our weaknesses.
Matthew 20:28
“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.”
Jesus exemplifies greatness through His ultimate act of service: giving His life for others. This verse is a call to follow His example of selfless service. Reflecting on this, I realize that true greatness lies in our willingness to serve and sacrifice for others. Jesus sets the standard, and following His example in our daily lives brings us into conformity with His greatness, marked by selflessness and love.
1 Timothy 6:6
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Paul defines greatness as godliness combined with contentment. It’s a counter-cultural view where our character and satisfaction in God bring true gain. I’ve found that striving for contentment in Christ rather than material success brings a deeper sense of peace and fulfillment. This verse challenges us to find greatness not in accumulating wealth or status, but in living a godly life with a content heart. True gain is achieved through a life anchored in Christ.
John 3:30
“He must become greater; I must become less.”
John the Baptist’s humility shines through in this verse. He recognizes the need for Jesus to increase and for himself to decrease. This is a profound principle for greatness: making less of ourselves and more of Christ. As I reflect on my own walk, I see the importance of elevating Christ in all I do and say. It’s a call to selflessness, prioritizing Jesus’ glory over our own. True greatness comes when we redirect the spotlight from ourselves to Him.
Psalm 75:6-7
“No one from the east or the west or from the desert can exalt themselves. It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.”
This Psalm emphasizes that exaltation comes from God alone. It’s a humbling reminder that our efforts to elevate ourselves are futile without God’s hand. Life’s experiences have taught me that trusting in God’s timing and promotion brings lasting fulfillment. When we rely on Him rather than self-promotion, we are truly lifted up. This verse reassures that God’s judgment is just and His elevation is what truly counts. We must trust in His plan for our lives.
Colossians 3:23-24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
Paul encourages us to work wholeheartedly for the Lord, not just for human acknowledgment. This perspective transforms the way we view our tasks and responsibilities. Reflecting on this, I recall times when I found greater joy and fulfillment in tasks, knowing I was serving God rather than just human expectations. The promise of an eternal inheritance from God inspires us to strive for excellence in all we do, making our work a form of worship.
Isaiah 66:2
“Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.”
God values humility and reverence for His word over any human accomplishments. When we approach God with a humble and contrite heart, we find favor in His sight. Personal success can sometimes blind us to what really matters, but this verse is a reminder that God values a surrendered heart. It calls us to humility and a deep respect for His word, guiding us towards a life that pleases Him. True greatness is found in humble submission to God.
Romans 12:3
“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”
Paul warns against an inflated self-view, urging believers to judge themselves soberly and humbly. Reflecting on my journey, I find that humility brings clarity and purpose. This verse invites us to honest self-assessment and gratitude for the faith God has given us. It’s a call to live humbly, recognizing that our abilities and successes come from Him. Thinking soberly of ourselves creates space for God’s greatness to manifest through us.
John 13:14-15
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
Jesus models servant leadership by washing His disciples’ feet and calls us to follow His example. This humble act of service speaks volumes about true greatness in God’s kingdom. I’ve found that embracing opportunities to serve others, even in simple ways, brings joy and deeper connections. Jesus teaches us that greatness is expressed through acts of service and love. His example encourages us to lead with humility and selflessness, reflecting His heart in all we do.
Zephaniah 3:17
“The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
This verse portrays God as a mighty warrior who takes delight in us. It speaks of a great love where God rejoices over us. Understanding that God takes delight in me, despite my flaws and failures, fills my heart with gratitude. This divine love redefines greatness, reminding us that we are cherished by the Creator Himself. It brings a sense of worth and purpose, knowing we are deeply loved by God.
Psalm 145:3
“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.”
The psalmist declares God’s unfathomable greatness, which calls us to worship Him. Reflecting on this verse, I am reminded of moments in nature where the sheer beauty and majesty of creation point to God’s greatness. These experiences draw me to worship and awe. Acknowledging God’s greatness and worthiness of praise centers our hearts on Him, shifting our focus from ourselves to His majestic nature.
Genesis 12:2
“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.”
God’s promise to Abraham includes greatness and the call to be a blessing. This covenant reveals that greatness in God’s eyes involves not only receiving blessings but also being a conduit of blessings to others. Reflecting on my own life, I see that when I bless others, I experience God’s blessing in greater measure. This verse encourages us to embrace God’s promises and to seek to be a blessing to those around us. It teaches that true greatness is intertwined with generosity and faithfulness to God’s calling.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
Paul’s message here is one of accepting and even boasting in our weaknesses, as they highlight Christ’s power. Reflecting on times of personal weakness, I realize these moments often brought me closer to God. This verse invites us to trust in God’s grace, knowing that His strength shines through our weaknesses. It’s a comforting and humbling reminder that our limitations are opportunities for God’s power to be displayed.
Psalm 71:21
“You will increase my honor and comfort me once more.”
The psalmist expresses confidence that God will exalt him and provide comfort. This verse speaks to God’s ability to elevate us and bring us solace. Reflecting on challenging times, I’ve often found that God’s comfort and honor come in His perfect timing. It’s reassuring to trust that God sees our struggles and will elevate us in due course. This promise of honor and comfort encourages us to persevere, knowing that God is faithful to increase our honor and provide peace.
Also Read: 30 Bible Verses About Drinking In Moderation
What Does the Bible Say About Greatness?
When we explore the Bible to understand what it says about greatness, we uncover a distinct perspective that often stands in contrast to worldly views. According to the Scriptures, greatness is not defined by power, status, or wealth but by humility, service, and love for others.
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself redefines greatness. As He teaches us in the Gospel of Mark, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all.” Here, Jesus flips the status quo by emphasizing that true greatness lies in serving others and putting their needs above our own. This radical teaching challenges us to redefine our ambitions and measure our success not by personal achievements but by the impact we have on others.
Furthermore, in the account of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet in the Gospel of John, He provides us with a powerful example of humble service. Jesus, despite being the Son of God, kneels to wash the feet of His disciples, demonstrating that genuine greatness is marked by acts of humble service and love. Through this act, He invites us to understand that no task is too humble if it is done in love and service to others.
Additionally, the Apostle Paul, in his letters, repeatedly encourages us to follow Christ’s example of humility and service. For instance, in Philippians, he reminds us to “do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” Paul’s teachings reinforce the idea that greatness in the eyes of God is directly linked to humility and selflessness.
The Old Testament also provides insights into true greatness. King Solomon, known for his wisdom, wealth, and power, concluded that fearing God and keeping His commandments is the duty of all mankind. This wisdom literature urges us to seek a relationship with God and live according to His principles rather than pursuing earthly accolades.
In essence, the Bible encourages us to seek greatness by embodying humility, practicing selfless service, and fostering a deep relationship with God. By doing so, we align ourselves with the values of God’s kingdom, where the last shall be first, and the humble and meek are exalted. Let us, therefore, strive to be great in the way God defines greatness, by serving others with love and humility.