Portraits of Grace

John MacArthur: This is John MacArthur inviting you to join me for Portraits of Grace. Are you familiar with the old saying, "It’s who you know that counts"? That refers to the idea that you can get what you want as long as you know the right people.

As incredible as it seems, two of Jesus' closest disciples, James and John, tried to use their family connections with Jesus to get seats next to Him in His Kingdom. They did this right after Christ predicted His imminent persecution and death, but they never heard it. They were too preoccupied with their own agenda.

What about you? Do you try to take advantage of other believers to further your own agenda? If you do, have you forgotten what Jesus said: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth"? You see, true greatness comes only when you humbly obey the Lord.