Mark 9:30-35
November 1st 2026, First Lord’s Day of the Month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, Pastor
Jesus told His disciples that He would soon be killed and that He would rise again. Yet the disciples were arguing among themselves about who was the greatest. Let us learn about the contrast between the disciples’ thoughts and the Lord’s will.
First, they were thinking about something completely opposite to what the Lord had in mind. Jesus was thinking of giving His life and bringing salvation to mankind, but the disciples were thinking about obtaining positions of honor in His kingdom. They were seeking something entirely contrary to His will.
Second, they did not respond faithfully to the Lord’s will. When Jesus asked them what they had been discussing on the way, they remained silent. They did not want to admit their own sins.
Third, the Lord continued to lead them with love and patience. He taught them that whoever would be great must become a servant of all. Like the disciples, we too often walk in foolish ways. Yet the Lord still leads us with love and patience. Therefore, let us also treat others with the same grace and serve them humbly!
<Word of the Bible>
33 And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” 34 But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest.
Mark 9: 33-34 (English Standard Version)
