Luke 22:26

But ye [shall] not [be] so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.

But {G1161} ye {G5210} shall not {G3756} be so {G3779}: but {G235} he that is greatest {G3187} among {G1722} you {G5213}, let him be {G1096} as {G5613} the younger {G3501}; and {G2532} he that is chief {G2233}, as {G5613} he that doth serve {G1247}.

But not so with you! On the contrary, let the greater among you become like the younger, and one who rules like one who serves.

But you shall not be like them. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who leads like the one who serves.

But ye shall not be so: but he that is the greater among you, let him become as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.

Commentary

Commentary on Luke 22:26 (KJV)

Luke 22:26 presents a foundational principle of Christian leadership and community, directly contrasting the values of God's kingdom with those of the world. In this pivotal moment, Jesus challenges His disciples' worldly ambitions, setting a new standard for true greatness.

Context

This verse immediately follows a dispute among the disciples during the Last Supper, where they were arguing "which of them should be accounted the greatest" (Luke 22:24). This argument highlights their lingering human desire for status and recognition, even as they stood on the precipice of Christ's passion. Jesus had just instituted the new covenant through His body and blood, and now He turns to address their earthly mindset. He first contrasts their behavior with the rulers of the Gentiles, who "exercise lordship" and are called "benefactors" (Luke 22:25). Then, in verse 26, He declares that His followers are to operate under a completely different paradigm.

Key Themes

  • Servant Leadership: The core message is a radical redefinition of leadership. In Christ's kingdom, true leadership is not about power or authority over others, but about humble service. The "greatest" is not the one who commands, but the one who serves.
  • Humility: Jesus calls for a profound humility that rejects worldly ambition and status-seeking. To be "as the younger" signifies taking a position of less prominence or authority, contrary to societal norms where seniority and age often dictated respect and power.
  • Kingdom Values vs. Worldly Values: This verse starkly contrasts the principles of God's kingdom with the hierarchical, power-driven structures of the world. While the world exalts those who dominate, Christ exalts those who humble themselves and serve. This echoes His teaching on whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Greatest" (Greek: meizon): This word implies superiority in rank, size, or importance. Jesus takes this concept and flips it on its head.
  • "Chief" (Greek: hegoumenos): Refers to a leader, one who goes before, a ruler, or a commander. It denotes someone in a position of authority.
  • "Serve" (Greek: diakonos): This is the root word from which we get "deacon." It literally means one who serves, especially at tables, emphasizing practical, humble assistance. It's the same word used to describe Christ's own purpose: "the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve".
  • "Younger" (Greek: neoteros): In ancient cultures, the younger typically had less status, authority, and privilege than the older. By instructing the "greatest" to be "as the younger," Jesus calls for a deliberate relinquishing of perceived rights and status.

Practical Application

Luke 22:26 remains a radical call to discipleship for all believers, especially those in positions of leadership within the church or community. It challenges us to:

This verse serves as a timeless reminder that in God's eyes, greatness is measured by the depth of one's service and the humility of one's heart, not by worldly titles or positions.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Peter 5:5 (5 votes)

    ¶ 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.

  • Mark 9:35 (4 votes)

    And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, [the same] shall be last of all, and servant of all.

  • Matthew 18:3 (4 votes)

    And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

  • Matthew 18:5 (4 votes)

    And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.

  • 1 Peter 5:3 (4 votes)

    Neither as being lords over [God's] heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

  • Luke 9:48 (4 votes)

    And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.

  • Romans 12:2 (3 votes)

    And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.