Matthew 20:20-28
BSB:
20. Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and knelt down to make a request of Him.
21. “What do you want?” He inquired.
She answered, “Declare that in Your kingdom one of these two sons of mine may sit at Your right hand, and the other at Your left.”
22. “You do not know what you are asking,” Jesus replied. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?”
“We can,” the brothers answered.
23. “You will indeed drink My cup,” Jesus said. “But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them.”
24. When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers.
25. But Jesus called them aside and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them.
26. It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,
27. and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave—
28. just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”
Contextual Background
Before delving into the specific verses, it is essential to understand the broader context in which they are situated. Matthew 20:20-28 occurs within the narrative framework of Jesus’ ministry, as he journeys toward Jerusalem, where he knows his crucifixion awaits. Throughout his ministry, Jesus imparted teachings that challenged conventional wisdom and societal norms, often emphasizing humility, compassion, and service to others.
The Request of the Mother of James and John (Matthew 20:20-23)
The passage begins with the mother of James and John, two of Jesus’ disciples, approaching him with a request. She kneels before him, asking for a special favor: that her sons be granted positions of honor and authority in Jesus’ kingdom—one to sit on his right hand and the other on his left. This request reflects a common understanding among Jesus’ disciples that he was the long-awaited Messiah who would establish a kingdom on earth.
Jesus’ response to this request is illuminating. He acknowledges that James and John will indeed face challenges and suffering in their discipleship journey, including sharing in his own suffering. However, he gently rebukes the ambition and self-centeredness underlying the request, reminding them that positions of honor in his kingdom are not granted based on human desires or political maneuvering but are determined by the Father in heaven.
The Reaction of the Other Disciples (Matthew 20:24-28)
Upon hearing about the request made by James and John’s mother, the other disciples become indignant. They likely feel slighted or resentful that James and John would seek special treatment from Jesus. Sensing their discontent, Jesus gathers them together and delivers a profound teaching on the nature of leadership and greatness.
Key Themes in Matthew 20:20-28
1. Servant Leadership: Jesus overturns conventional notions of leadership by emphasizing the principle of servant leadership. He declares, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” In the kingdom of God, true greatness is not measured by authority or status but by one’s willingness to humbly serve others.
2. The Example of Jesus: Jesus himself exemplifies the ultimate model of servant leadership. He states, “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus, the divine Son of God, willingly took on the role of a servant, sacrificing his own life for the redemption of humanity. His life and teachings serve as a radical challenge to worldly notions of power and prestige.
3. The Contrast with the World: Jesus contrasts the values of his kingdom with those of the world. He says, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” In the world, leadership often revolves around the exertion of power and control, but in God’s kingdom, it is characterized by humility and selflessness.
4. The Call to Imitate Christ: Jesus concludes by issuing a call to his disciples to follow his example. He challenges them to emulate his servant-heartedness and self-sacrificial love in their interactions with others. This call extends beyond the immediate context of Jesus’ ministry and resonates with all who seek to follow him today.
Implications for Contemporary Readers
The teachings found in Matthew 20:20-28 hold profound implications for contemporary readers, particularly those in positions of leadership and influence. In a world marked by ambition, competition, and self-promotion, the call to servant leadership stands as a radical counter-cultural message.
For leaders in various spheres—whether in business, politics, academia, or religious institutions—Matthew 20:20-28 offers a paradigm shift in understanding the true essence of leadership. It challenges leaders to prioritize the needs of others above their own ambitions, to lead with humility and integrity, and to use their influence for the betterment of those they serve.
Furthermore, for all believers, Jesus’ example serves as a compelling invitation to live lives characterized by selfless service and sacrificial love. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we are called to follow in the footsteps of Christ, embodying his teachings in our daily lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew 20:20-28 presents a profound exploration of the nature of leadership and greatness in the kingdom of God. Through his teachings and example, Jesus challenges his disciples—and all who would follow him—to embrace a radical vision of servant leadership, characterized by humility, compassion, and self-sacrifice.
As contemporary readers, we are called to heed Jesus’ words and to embody his example in our own lives. By embracing the call to servant leadership, we participate in the transformative work of God’s kingdom, bringing hope, healing, and reconciliation to a world in desperate need of servant-hearted leaders.