Mark 9:33 And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? 34 But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest.
In the case with the disciples, a storm was brewing over who should be accounted the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, and from what the scriptures reveal, it had caused a division amongst them, as all strove to have the highest place, next to Christ.
But lo and behold, when Jesus was present, and had asked them about the situation, they all put on their best behavior, and remained silent. The presence of Christ put a different perspective on the matter and Jesus could have addressed the behavioral aspect of His disciple’s contention. But doing so would just be putting a temporary bandage on a problem, which would rupture at some future point.
Very often in the Christian church, the focus is put on behaviors which are indeed symptoms of a much deeper problem. Therefore, if folks focus too much on behavioral patterns, we would entirely miss the main point, for doing so is the equivalent of playing whack-a mole with behaviors.
Romans 8:5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!