Revolutionary Concept. Mark 10:41-45.
And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. “But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,” and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Dear Ambassadors of the King of Kings,
The rest of the disciples must have been within earshot when James and John made their request to Jesus. Their reaction confirms that they too had no clue what Jesus’ mission was.
Envy (v. 41). What Jesus did about the request of James and John was really up to him. That the other ten were indignant is not a demonstration of righteousness but of jealousy and selfishness. They fall into the same trap of seeking position and priority. The disciples represent general human disposition. We tend to resent others for their good fortune or their selfish attempts to get on top. We are concerned more that they do not get the better of us than that we ought to do what is right and fair.
Enlightenment (v. 42-44). Jesus patiently seeks to educate the disciples yet again about his mission. The world has its ways, in which the leaders amass power and push everyone around. But this is not the way of Jesus. His kingdom values are the exact opposite. Humility, servanthood and giving priority to others are the hallmark of this new and revolutionary approach to leadership.
Example (v. 45). The disciples acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah. Yet he does not push his weight around. Instead, he serves his disciples and the people. Ultimately, he will give his life as a ransom, to pay for the redemption of sinful humanity. The new way, Jesus is saying, is not just about servanthood, it is about self-sacrifice. It is not about what one can gain, it is about what one can give. Why are you following Jesus? Are you, like the disciples, after power and material gain? That is a path that will end in disappointment. Seek instead to serve – it is a path that will bring you satisfaction and, yes, glory.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.