The disciples were presumptuously proud. They argued about who was the greatest among them (46; Mark 9:33-35). The argument came from their pride and ambitions. Pride is an arrogant or disdainful conduct or treatment caused by a high opinion of oneself; our skills, accomplishments, state, possessions, or position. Pride is easier to recognize than define, easier to recognize in others than oneself.
Many biblical words describe this concept, each with its own emphasis. Some of the synonyms for pride include arrogance, presumption, conceit, self-satisfaction, boasting, and high-mindedness. It is the opposite of humility, the proper attitude one should have in relation to God. Pride is rebellion against God because it attributes to self the honor and glory due to God alone.
Jesus knew the disciples’ thoughts and hearts (47). Jesus does not want his disciples to be proud. So, he teaches me with a simple illustration with a child. “Then he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all–he is the greatest.'” Humility is the opposite of pride.
Proverbs 11:2 states, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” And Proverbs 22:4 promises, “Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honor and life.”
