Definition: And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, [the same] shall be last of all, and servant of all.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Mark 9:35. It’s a really important and slightly dramatic verse in the Bible. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about leadership and importance. Jesus is telling his twelve disciples (the followers of him) that they shouldn't think of themselves as being best or most important . Instead, their role is to serve others and follow God’s will. Let’s unpack it word by word: “And he sat down” : Jesus is taking a break and resting. He’s not just casually talking; he’s choosing this moment for something significant. “and saith unto them” : He's speaking to his disciples, addressing them directly. “Sayeth” means "says" in the original Greek language. “If any man desires to be first” : This is the core of the message. It’s about wanting a special position or title. It’s not about being better than others, but about wanting to be noticed and valued for something. “and shall be last of all” : This means that those who desire this special position will end up in a very low place – being the last one. Think of it like a hierarchy - those at the top are the most important. “and servant of all” : This is the crucial part. It’s not about being a powerful leader, but rather someone who is willing to serve others and follow God's will. It means they should put the needs of others before their own. In essence, Jesus is saying: Don’t think you need to be in charge or the most important thing. Instead, focus on serving others and being a good example – that's where true significance comes from. It emphasizes humility and selfless service. Why is this a significant verse? This passage highlights several key themes: Jesus’ Authority: It shows Jesus’ position as the leader of his followers, not just a teacher, but someone who holds ultimate authority. Importance of Serving Others: It emphasizes that true value isn't found in personal ambition, but in serving others and being a good example. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an analogy? Discuss its context within the larger story of Matthew?