Matthew 20:20–28 explores the request of James and John’s mother for her sons to sit at Jesus’s right and left in His kingdom.
In a world chasing power, Jesus redefines greatness.
When the mother of James and John makes a bold request, Jesus offers a radically different path to honor: humble service.
Matthew 20:20–28 (NASB 2020)
20 Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to Jesus with her sons, bowing down and making a request of Him. 21 And He said to her, “What do you desire?” She said to Him, “Say that in Your kingdom these two sons of mine shall sit, one on Your right and one on Your left.” 22 But Jesus replied, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?” They said to Him, “We are able.” 23 He said to them, “My cup you shall drink; but to sit on My right and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.” 24 And after hearing this, the other ten disciples became indignant with the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles domineer over them, and those in high position exercise authority over them. 26 It is not this way among you, but whoever wants to become prominent among you shall be your servant, 27 and whoever desires to be first among you shall 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.”
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- The mother of James and John, and then directly to the twelve disciples, after the request she made.
- Future believers, including us, who might wrestle with ambition, competition, and recognition
What Happened?
- The mother of James and John asked Jesus to give her sons positions of power, initiating the famous request.
- Jesus clarified that His kingdom runs on different values
- He asked if they were willing to suffer like Him
- The other disciples reacted with anger and jealousy
- Jesus corrected everyone by teaching servant leadership
The Mood: Bold Request, Friction, Redirection
- The mother’s tone is ambitious and reverent, particularly in her request concerning her sons.
- The disciples were jealous and defensive
- Jesus was clear and corrective, redirecting their focus
The Principle: True Greatness Is Found in Humble Service
- Desire for greatness is not wrong, but the path to it is radically different, as seen by James and John’s mother’s request.
- Jesus doesn’t condemn ambition—He redefines it
- The greatest in the kingdom are those who serve others selflessly
Audience Response (Then)
- The ten disciples were angry, but also guilty of the same ambition
- This moment sparked Jesus’ powerful teaching on leadership
- Likely led to self-reflection among the group
What This Means for Us in 2025
- In today’s self-promoting world, Jesus still calls us to lead through serving
- We must resist the cultural urge for fame and influence
- True impact comes from pouring out your life for others
Action Steps for Today
- Examine your motives. Are you chasing visibility or surrendering to God’s will?
- Serve someone today without expecting anything in return
- Celebrate others’ success without jealousy
- Model Christlike leadership in your home, work, or ministry
- Remember your ransom. You were bought with a price to serve
Final Prayer
Jesus, You came to serve and give Your life. Forgive me for the times I’ve pursued position over purpose. Teach me to lead like You—with humility, love, and sacrifice. Make me a servant in every area of life. Amen.
Greatness in God’s kingdom begins at the feet of others.
