How is greatness determined?

How Is Greatness Determined? (According to the Bible)

      In a world that celebrates power, prestige, wealth, and fame, the biblical view of greatness stands in stark contrast. Scripture flips the worldly concept of greatness on its head and teaches that those who are truly great are not the ones with the most followers, possessions, or applause—but those who humbly serve, obey God, and walk in love. God's standards for greatness are rooted in character, humility, and obedience.

1. Greatness Is Defined by Servanthood

      Jesus made it unmistakably clear that greatness in the Kingdom of God is measured by service to others.

   “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” — Matthew 23:11 (KJV)

      In God’s eyes, the path to greatness is not about climbing a ladder of success but stooping low to serve. Jesus Himself modeled this when He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:12–17). Though He was the Son of God, He took on the role of a servant to demonstrate what greatness looks like.

      The world may scoff at such humility, but God honors it. Serving others with a pure heart, expecting nothing in return, is a mark of true greatness.

2. Greatness Is Rooted in Humility

      God honors the humble and opposes the proud.

   “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” — James 4:10 (KJV)

      Pride may bring temporary success, but it leads to eventual destruction (Proverbs 16:18). On the other hand, humility invites God’s grace and promotion. Jesus described a scene in Luke 14:11 where those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted.

      Biblical greatness begins with knowing our dependence on God and walking in humility before Him and others.

3. Greatness Is Marked by Obedience to God

      A great person in the Kingdom is not merely someone with spiritual gifts or influence, but one who obeys God consistently.

   “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord... to walk in obedience to him...” — Deuteronomy 10:12 (NIV)

      King Saul was once favored by God, but his disobedience led to his downfall. In contrast, David, though imperfect, was considered a man after God’s heart because he sought to obey and please the Lord. Jesus also said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Obedience, even in private, reveals the greatness of one's heart.

4. Greatness Is Measured by Faithfulness

      God values faithfulness over results or recognition. In the parable of the Talents, the servant who was faithful with little was called “good and faithful” and rewarded.

   “Well done, thou good and faithful servant...” — Matthew 25:21 (KJV)

      You may never stand on a stage, write a book, or be known by the masses, but if you are faithful in the place God has called you, He sees you as great. Faithfulness in small things—prayer, love, integrity, generosity—is greatness in God’s eyes.

5. Jesus Is the Standard of Greatness

      If you want to know what true greatness looks like, look at Jesus.

   “...He made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant...” — Philippians 2:7 (KJV)

      Jesus, though fully God, humbled Himself to live among us, suffer, and die for our sins. He did not seek worldly power or popularity but fulfilled the will of His Father. Because of His obedience and humility, God exalted Him above all (Philippians 2:9–11).

      Greatness, therefore, is not about being seen—it’s about being surrendered.

6. Love Is the Greatest of All

      Paul concludes in 1 Corinthians 13 that love surpasses even faith and hope.

   “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity [love].” — 1 Corinthians 13:13 (KJV)

      You can do mighty works, give all your goods to the poor, or speak with the tongues of angels—but if you lack love, it profits nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1–3). A person who walks in love—patient, kind, forgiving, and selfless—is truly great in God’s Kingdom.

      In summary, greatness in the Bible is not about doing big things but about being faithful in small things. It’s not about being seen by people but being known by God. True greatness is found in serving others, walking in humility, obeying God, being faithful, and living a life marked by love.

      If you want to be great, Jesus invites you to follow His example. Lower yourself, lift others, and live to please the Father—not man. In doing so, you will be counted as great in the eyes of heaven.