Matthew 20:24

And when the ten heard [it], they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.

And {G2532} when the ten {G1176} heard {G191} it, they were moved with indignation {G23} against {G4012} the two {G1417} brethren {G80}.

Now when the other ten heard about this, they were outraged at the two brothers.

When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers.

And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation concerning the two brethren.

Matthew 20:24 describes the immediate reaction of the other disciples to James and John's ambitious request for prominent positions in Jesus' kingdom. This verse is pivotal, setting the stage for Jesus' profound teaching on true leadership and service.

Context

Immediately prior to this verse, James and John, through their mother, had boldly asked Jesus for the chief seats—one on His right hand and one on His left—in His coming kingdom. This request revealed their misunderstanding of the nature of Jesus' spiritual reign and their own worldly ambitions, even after Jesus had just spoken about His impending suffering and death in Jerusalem (Matthew 20:17-19). The "ten" refers to the remaining disciples, who heard this audacious petition.

Key Themes

  • Human Ambition and Selfishness: The core issue isn't just James and John's request, but the underlying desire for status and power that also resided in the hearts of the other ten. Their indignation stemmed from a competitive spirit, not necessarily from a righteous opposition to pride.
  • Misunderstanding of the Kingdom: The disciples, despite spending significant time with Jesus, continued to struggle with the concept of His kingdom. They envisioned an earthly realm with traditional hierarchies, rather than a spiritual kingdom founded on humility and service.
  • Jealousy and Indignation: The anger of the ten was likely fueled by jealousy. They too harbored hopes of high positions, and seeing two of their peers seemingly trying to get ahead of them provoked a strong negative reaction. This highlights the ongoing human struggle with envy, even among those called to follow Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "indignation" is aganakteo (ἀγανακτέω), which means to be greatly displeased, vexed, or annoyed. It describes a strong emotional reaction, often implying a sense of outrage or resentment. In this context, it points to a deep-seated frustration and perhaps envy among the disciples, rather than a principled stand against worldly ambition.

Practical Application

Matthew 20:24 serves as a powerful reminder of the persistent human tendency towards ambition and rivalry, even within spiritual communities. It calls believers to:

  • Examine Motives: Are our desires for influence or recognition rooted in service or self-exaltation?
  • Embrace Humility: True greatness in God's kingdom is found in humble service, not in worldly power or position. Jesus immediately follows this incident with teaching on servant leadership, where the greatest among them would be a servant.
  • Overcome Jealousy: This verse exposes how easily envy can arise when others seem to gain an advantage. It challenges us to celebrate others' gifts and callings rather than competing with them, fostering unity as urged in Ephesians 4:3.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Peter 5:5

    ¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

  • James 4:5

    Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?

  • James 4:6

    But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

  • Mark 10:41

    And when the ten heard [it], they began to be much displeased with James and John.

  • Philippians 2:3

    [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

  • Luke 22:23

    And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.

  • Luke 22:25

    And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back