TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Mark 9:30–41
SERMON FOCUS: Humility, Servant Leadership, Spiritual Maturity, Unity in Christ

Sermon Highlights:
* Lesson #1 – The Lower the Better (v.31–32): Jesus teaches His death and resurrection, but the disciples don’t understand.
* Lesson #2 – Talking Too Much (v.33–34): They argued about who was greatest—silence when Jesus asks.
* Lesson #3 – The Last Servant (v.35–37): “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” Jesus welcomes a child.
* Lesson #4 – No Tribal Territories (v.38–40): “Whoever is not against us is for us.” Celebrate God’s work beyond your circle.

Biblical Markers of Spiritual Growth:
* Increasing Christlikeness & Fruit of the Spirit
* Desire for God’s Word
* Ability to stand firm through trouble
* Discernment (Hebrews 5:14)
* A servant’s heart (Mark 10:45)
* Humility (Philippians 2:5–11; Romans 12:3)

Five Ways to Practice Humility:
1. Practice active listening
2. Admit mistakes and apologize
3. Serve others
4. Cultivate gratitude
5. Stay open‑minded and teachable