GREATNESS
Often when people aspire for greatness they do what is commonly seen as name dropping. Name dropping is the practice of associating oneself with someone or something that has acquired notability. This supposed affiliation equates the boaster as being worthy of comparable honor or recognition as those mentioned.

The problem with this form of self-promotion is that unless those mentioned are known and respected by the listener, the action is senseless and counterproductive. Additionally, when one is truly great their works go before them; so that they do not need a prefabbed audience or the approval of others (Histrionic personality disorder). This in no way suggests that one should disdain human companionship or appreciation; but that true success is not framed by the theater mentality.

Is greatness attributed to by means of self-actualization? It this then found at the peak of Abraham Maslow's hierarchy? 
Chanakya (370 – c. 283 BC) an Indian teacher, philosopher, and royal advisor claims a man is great by deeds and not by birth.

The Great Man theory was popularized in the 1840s by Thomas Carlyle, while embraced the idea that great men were born and would ultimately rise when in need. In 1860 Herbert Spencer formulated a decisive counter-argument noting that 
leaders were products of the society in which they lived. Spencer wrote, "you must admit that the genesis of a great man depends on the long series of complex influences which has produced the race in which he appears, and the social state into which that race has slowly grown....Before he can remake his society, his society must make him." (Combined sources)

If not the above then how must the mystery of greatness be entreated or is it a questionable notion of which the Christian community should avoid. Let start by determining what truly makes for greatness. However upon reasoning one opinion this becomes complex as greatness is viewed differently from group to group.

As we have discovered above, some assess greatness to be an innate gifting; as in prodigy; to another is may be some self-subscribed role, or perhaps an accomplishment of sorts. To another degree many advocate the virtual life of accomplished behaviorism; characterized by morality traits such as integrity or loyalty.

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me (Matthew 16:24 KJV).

For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted (Luke 14:11 KJV).

But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister (Matt20:26 KJV);

In examining the memoirs of The Apostle called Paul we see that He spoke of both the abasement and abundances of the mission. 
I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need (Philippians 4:12 KJV).

So then why do men pursue greatness? Can the answer be found in the confines of one own soul? Perhaps it configures the pathway by which one may clearly identify success as to leave a footprint in time? Conversely, if self-importance is used as a means to idealize ones self-centered agenda to dominate and manipulate, it is than nothing more than self-preserving and sorcery (mä-gyü'-ō/ to practice magical arts) Acts 8:9).

Hear what the Apostle speaks:
That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead (Philippians 3:10, 11 KJV).

And while the Bible does declare that He {Christ (khrē-sto's) anointed} hath made us kings {bä-sē-lyü's) leader of the people} and priest unto GOD and His Father (Revelation 1:6); this in no way implies that we are to enthrone ourselves. The ideology behind this passage is an indication of placement in The Beloved. Moreover, because He is of Royal decent and is Divine; we being in Him are the reflection of his nature.

True greatness is not assumed; but presumed; and endowed by our Creator (see Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 2, 2Timothy 2:20, 21). To assume greatness without the leading of The Spirit can evidentially lead to pride, selfish endeavors and confusion; which are all but a sham and complete waste of time. The veracity of refined greatness is the presentation of values and virtues that reflect worth to the glorification of The Heavenly.

Truth be told we have no righteousness (dē-kī-o-sü'-nā/integrity, virtue), as our hearts bear the consequences of judgment (Romans 5:14-21). But, Thanks be unto GOD for our Savior, “Jesus Christ.”

Let us therefore, go forth not seeking the recognition and royalties of this present world. But rather seeking to honor and edify one another. Building up one another in holiness and righteousness; desiring the things which are wrought in eternity and glorify GOD. –Blessings!

 

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