Mark 10

The title of our lesson is How to be Successful. Here are some questions about success.

- At this point in your life, do you consider yourself to be successful? How do you measure success?
-What is your definition of success? What is Jesus' definition of success?
- What is the measure of the successfulness of Jesus' ministry? He didn't heal everybody. He wasn't liked by everybody. He didn't have material goods. God's plan was for Jesus to die for mankind. He followed God's plan. He completed the mission as directed by God.
- The Jews generally considered wealth to be a sign of God's favor. What are your feelings towards wealthy people?
- When I think of personal success, where is my focus?

James and John ask for favored positions in Jesus' kingdom. How would you feel about this if you were one of the 12? It appears the brothers (and possibly the other disciples) were still expecting a political / military Messiah to rescue Israel from the Romans. The person sitting at the king's right was ranked second in the kingdom and the person on the left was next in prominence. Selfish ambition has no place in a Christian's life. To be a successful Christian we must follow the requirements of discipleship.

In verse 43, Jesus states "whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant". The term "servant" expresses the activity of personal ministry for others' best interests. Service equals success.