Section 90
Rivalry over greatness in the kingdom
Capernaum
| Matthew 18:1-5 | Mark 9:33-37 | Luke 9:46-48 |
|---|---|---|
| 1In that hour the disciples came to Jesus and said, “Who is greater in the kingdom of heaven?” | 33Then Jesus came to Capernaum, and when he was in the house, he asked the disciples, “What were you discussing among yourselves on the way?” 34But they were silent, because on the way they had been arguing with one another about who was greater. 35So Jesus sat down, called the twelve over, and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last of all and a servant to all.” | 46Now an argument arose among the disciples as to which of them was greater. |
| 2So Jesus called over a little child, placed him among them, 3and said, “Truly I say to you, unless you change and become like little children, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. | 36Then he took a child and placed him before them. And taking the child in his arms, he said to them, | 47But Jesus, perceiving the thoughts of their hearts, took a child and placed him by his side. |
| 4Therefore whoever humbles himself like this little child is greater in the kingdom of heaven. 5And whoever receives one little child such as this in my name receives me, | 37“Whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me0x3B and whoever receives me, receives not me, but him who sent me.” | 48Then he said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who will be great.” |
Notes
Capernaum
Capernaum, the center of Jesus’ ministry, is no longer inhabited. Although abandoned after the Islamic conquest of the seventh century, the earthquake of 747 A.D. left the town desolate, and only remains are left. It was once a thriving town on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. As you pass the vibrant colors of the bougainvillea, eucalyptus and palm trees at the entrance, you are reminded of the fertility of the soil and the mild climate.
Only part of the city lies within the walls of the Franciscan compound. To the east of the walls is another part of the city owned by the Greek Orthodox Church. Most of the city in which Jesus ministered lies unexcavated, eastward along the shore and northward toward the hills. You can see black basalt stones in the fields, indicating the remains of buildings below the soil. This lovely village, with its white limestone synagogue and black basalt houses, gives evidence of its prosperity over several centuries.