Biblexika
Galilean Ministry·Recorded in 3 of 4 Gospels

Who Is the Greatest?

MatthewMarkLuke

The disciples argue about who is greatest. Jesus sets a child among them and teaches that whoever humbles himself like a child is greatest in the kingdom.

Parallel Accounts

Berean Standard Bible (BSB)

LegendShared across accountsHighlightedUnique to that Gospel
Matthew
18:1-5

Could not load verse text.

Mark
9:33-37

Could not load verse text.

Luke
9:46-48

Could not load verse text.

JohnNot recorded in this Gospel

Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible (BSB), public domain.

Mark reveals the disciples had been arguing "on the road" and were embarrassed when Jesus asked about it. Matthew frames the question as the disciples asking Jesus directly. Luke records that Jesus perceived "the reasoning of their hearts," making it an issue of inner disposition rather than open debate.

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Matthew

The disciples ask Jesus the question; he teaches about becoming like children.

Mark

Jesus asks what they were arguing about; they are silent with embarrassment. He takes a child in his arms.

Luke

Jesus perceives their inner thoughts and responds by placing a child beside him.

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Connected Content
Location
Capernaum
People
Commentary
Matthew 18
Read in Bible
Matthew 18:1-5
Phase in Jesus's Life
Galilean Ministry

The bulk of Jesus's public work centered in Galilee: calling of the Twelve, the Sermon on the Mount, parables, miracles, and growing opposition.

All pericopes
Gospel Coverage
Matthew
18:1-5
John
not recorded