The disciples wanted to know which of them would be the greatest in Christ's kingdom. Jesus did not answer the question immediately but asked a child to be with Him as He addressed the men. It would have been a humiliating experience for them to be told to change their attitudes to become like the small child. Although they had been chosen to be disciples and apostles, refusal to change their hearts would prevent them from entering His kingdom.
 
One of the disciples failed that critical test. Judas Iscariot thought more of himself than of Jesus: he allowed himself to be invaded by Satan and was excluded from God's kingdom. The others did change, and they became the leaders of the Early Church. But at this point in time, their hearts were proud and not humble: which was why they needed to be taught a lesson. Pride is found in those who think they are (or would like to be) strong or knowledgeable, or have status or experience in exercising power. But humility is found in people who know they are weak, ignorant and lacking in any real power.
 
The child was totally dependent on adults for everything, and he knew it. There was no sense in pretending to be big when he knew he was little. So Jesus told the disciples that if they were to be leaders in His church, they must abandon the habits of a lifetime and humble themselves in the same way that God commanded Solomon (2 Chronicles 7:14). Such a person would be of the greatest use to the Lord in building His church.
 
True child-like humility is precious to God and useful in the church. But pride and false humility disqualify people from leadership. Those who delight in religious status are seen in sharp contrast to a child. Child-like humility is willing for Father God to lead and provide, and willing to obey. So that part of us which loves to be first must learn that only Jesus is first; but those who are willing to let Him lead will be qualified to be leaders of others.