Least in the Kingdom!
Amen I tell you: Among those born of women there has not appeared anyone greater than John the Baptist. Yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. Matthew 11:11
In this section of Matthew, Jesus is speaking about John the Baptist. Look at what he says about him. “Among those born of women there has not appeared anyone greater that John the Baptist.” Think of all the great people in recorded history. Even if we limit the list to Old Testament people like Abraham, Moses, David, Isaiah or one of the other prophets, John ranks as number one.
Yes, he carried out his assignment. He prepared the world for the coming Savior. The Savior of the world is truly the most important figure. John had the privilege of pointing directly to Jesus. But…
In the next breath Jesus says, “Yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” Who is that? Many Bible scholars say that as great as John was, he didn’t get to see the way to eternal life established. He didn’t get to witness Jesus’ passion and his resurrection. So even the lowliest of believers is greater than John.
Martin Luther, and others, said that in this endorsement Jesus was speaking of himself. What did and does the world think about Jesus? During Jesus’ earthly ministry he was rejected. The cry was heard, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” The mocked, thorn crowned rabbi was certainly least in the kingdom of heaven. Yet he is greater than John, or anyone else. Yes, because Jesus was least, and by being the least, he made it possible for absolutely everyone to enter the kingdom.
Lord Jesus, thanks for being our Substitute and being the least for us, so that we now receive that great endorsement of your kingdom. Amen.