Matthew 18:1
At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?
Original Language Analysis
ἐκείνῃ
the same
G1565
ἐκείνῃ
the same
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
2 of 19
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
προσῆλθον
came
G4334
προσῆλθον
came
Strong's:
G4334
Word #:
5 of 19
to approach, i.e., (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ἰησοῦ
unto Jesus
G2424
Ἰησοῦ
unto Jesus
Strong's:
G2424
Word #:
9 of 19
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
λέγοντες,
saying
G3004
λέγοντες,
saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
10 of 19
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Τίς
Who
G5101
Τίς
Who
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
11 of 19
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
μείζων
the greatest
G3187
μείζων
the greatest
Strong's:
G3187
Word #:
13 of 19
larger (literally or figuratively, specially, in age)
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
16 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
βασιλείᾳ
the kingdom
G932
βασιλείᾳ
the kingdom
Strong's:
G932
Word #:
17 of 19
properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)
Cross References
Philippians 2:3Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.Matthew 23:11But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.Romans 12:10Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;Matthew 7:21Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Historical Context
The question follows the Transfiguration and discussions about Jesus' coming suffering. Jewish messianic expectations included hierarchy in the restored kingdom. Disciples argued about greatness multiple times (Mark 9:33-34, Luke 22:24), showing this wasn't casual curiosity but serious ambition. Jesus' answer radically contradicts their assumptions about power and position.
Questions for Reflection
- What ambitions for spiritual greatness or recognition do you harbor?
- How does worldly thinking about success infect your view of ministry?
- What makes kingdom greatness different from worldly achievement?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The disciples' question 'Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?' reveals worldly ambition creeping into spiritual ministry. They've seen Jesus' power and heard of the coming kingdom but understand neither its nature nor its values. This question exposes the human heart's natural pride and competition even among Christ's followers. Reformed theology recognizes that sinful nature persists in believers, requiring continuous repentance and reorientation toward kingdom values that invert worldly standards.