Verse of the Day 7-1-22

When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. Jesus called them together and said, “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, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 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.” Matthew 20:24-28

The other disciples are indignant because James and John had attempted to get what they themselves also wanted (see Matthew 20:20-23). Jesus gathers all the disciples together to talk with them. He aims to expose their misplaced ambition. Most people believe it is better to rule than to serve; thus, servants and slaves are two of the lowest positions in society. Jesus reverses the status of servants in the community of disciples. He claims servants are great and first. Disciples who want to be great in the kingdom must seek to serve others. The model for the disciples’ ambitions is Jesus’ own life of service. The Son of Man will exchange his life on the cross as a substitute for all those who will accept his payment for their sins.

Today’s Bible Readings:

2 Kings 18:13-19:37, Acts 21:1-17, Psalm 149:1-9 and Proverbs 18:8