The Overlooked Gospel
5 Little-Known Facts About Greatness
Mark 9

“We are locked in a struggle for dominance from which we cannot extricate ourselves!” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Creation and Fall

“…on the way they (disciples) had argued with one another about who was the greatest.” – Mark 9:34

Who was the [me’-gäs]?
	Esteemed, greatest, ranks, dominant
	
In our struggle for greatness, we must look to whom we follow
	You are a follower of Jesus if you arrive where He arrived

5 Little-Known Facts About Greatness

1. Never try anything without involving God first – Mark 9:14-29

2. Do something that puts us beneath another person – Mark 9:33-37, Ephesians 2:8-10, Philippians 2:1-18

Serving
	Something we were uniquely gifted for
	Where we discover purpose
	When we are most Christ-like

3. Look carefully at our circle of influence – Mark 9:38-41

Outside the circle “against us” – John 14:6, Romans 1:18-31, Galatians 1:8-9, 1 Timothy 4:1-9, Titus 3:9-11, 1 Corinthians 5:9-13

Inside the circle “for us” – Matthew 10:3-4, 1 Corinthians 8:1, Philippians 3, Galatians 6:1, Philippians 1:15-18, James 4:11-12

4. Change our behavior because of people around us – Mark 9:42-50

Parents: things that cause kids to stumble
	Harshness – Colossians 3:21, Ephesians 6:4
	Spiritual indifference – Proverbs 22:6, Hebrews 12:5-6
	Hypocrisy – Luke 6:39-42

Everyone: what causes us to stumble?
	Know what hooks you – James 1:14-15, Proverbs 22:3
	Temptations from internal desires (run) – 2 Timothy 2:22, 1 Corinthians 6:18
	Temptations from external trials (stand) – 1 Peter 5:8-9, James 1:4

5. Lead the way with righteousness and justice – Mark 9:49-50, www.openbible.info/topics/justice

“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne.” – Psalm 89:14

You are a follower of Jesus if you arrive where He arrived!