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Matthew 20:23

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

Matthew 20:23

Verse 23 of 34

Scripture focus

And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but [it shall be given to them] for whom it is prepared of my Father.

Matthew 20:23 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on Matthew 20:23

Theological / Devotional

Not mine to give. Instead of rebuking the audacity of the two brothers openly, Jesus deals with them less directly. Apparently, James and John and their mother came to Jesus alone.

For whom it is prepared. In the kingdom of heaven position is not awarded on the basis of influence or favoritism, nor can it be earned. It is awarded exclusively on the basis of fitness, and fitness is measured by the spirit of service for others (see on ch. 20:15). It is overcomers who will be invited to sit with Christ on His throne (see Additional Note on Rev. 3:21).

My Father. As a man among men Jesus did not exercise His kingly prerogatives (see on John 1).

By SdaBc