Greatness Is Found in Serving Others

Pastors Matthew and Anthony sat down for this episode of The Branch Podcast to continue the Following Jesus series. The conversation centered on what greatness truly means. While culture often ties greatness to achievement, wealth, or influence, Jesus defines it in a completely different way. This discussion moved from scripture into very practical areas of life such as leadership, marriage, parenting, and community. With personal stories and real examples, both pastors showed how serving others is the foundation of greatness in the kingdom of God.

They began by comparing how culture measures greatness with how Jesus views it. Culture often celebrates athletes, business leaders, and public figures for their achievements. Success is linked to money, fame, and popularity. While these accomplishments are not necessarily wrong, Pastor Matthew reminded listeners that they are temporary. Generations may celebrate some leaders for their lasting impact, but many others fade from memory. True greatness, as Jesus described, is not built on image or achievement but on eternal legacy.

When asked how Jesus would answer the question, “How can I be great?” Pastor Anthony pointed to childlike faith. A child depends on others without pride or ego, receives gifts with joy, and forgives easily. In the same way, greatness in God’s kingdom comes through humility, dependence on God, and love for others. Pastor Matthew emphasized that only when identity is rooted in Christ can believers be free from chasing cultural success. Out of that identity, serving becomes natural and meaningful.

The pastors then turned to leadership. Culture often views leadership as people serving the leader’s interests. Jesus showed the opposite, modeling servant leadership by washing His disciples’ feet. Pastor Anthony shared how he wants his staff and congregation to feel loved and supported, not just measured by performance. Pastor Matthew added that knowing staff personally and caring for their families reflects the heart of Christ. True leadership invests in people, setting them up to flourish.

In marriage, both pastors admitted it is easier to serve when couples agree, but more challenging in seasons of conflict. Pastor Matthew spoke honestly about realizing that debating did not make his wife feel loved, even if he thought it was logical. Pastor Anthony added that selfish expectations often harm marriages, but when both spouses pursue Christ instead of trying to change each other, they grow closer together. Loving a spouse means asking how they feel loved and choosing to serve them in that way.

Friendships were described as mutual and reciprocal, while other relationships may be one-sided ministry opportunities. The pastors noted that some people may not pour into us but that God still calls us to serve them. At times, this can include having hard conversations, spoken in love, when destructive patterns are present. Healthy boundaries matter, but so does openness to invest when the Holy Spirit prompts.

Parenting was another key topic. Pastor Anthony shared how he adjusts his approach with each of his children based on their personalities. One son responds better to gentleness than firmness, while another thrives on play and activity. Pastor Matthew agreed, noting that he had to learn more than one tool for discipline. Both emphasized that parenting means guiding, shaping, and discipling children, but doing so in a way that makes them feel known and loved.

Finally, they addressed community life. In today’s culture, neighbors often remain strangers. The pastors encouraged listeners to break out of isolation, practice hospitality, and look for needs to meet. Whether inviting a neighbor to share s’mores by the fire or helping someone with a small task, these simple acts show the love of Christ. Serving in community does not require grand gestures, just a willingness to see people and value them.

Greatness, according to Jesus, is not about fame, wealth, or accomplishment. It is found in humble service. From the way we lead at work, to how we love our spouse, to how we raise our children and interact with neighbors, every moment can be an opportunity to reflect His heart. The challenge is simple yet profound: choose to serve rather than be served.