Exodus 25-26, Matthew 20:17-34 • Key Verse: Matthew 20:23

Sometimes you have to wonder what in the world is going on in the heads of some people. This chapter includes one of those times. Jesus was again predicting His death, noting that it would involve betrayal, condemnation, mocking, flogging and a crucifixion—but it would end in resurrection.

Then the mother of James and John came to Jesus with a request: “Grant that one of these two sons of mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom” (v. 21).

When word got out about her request, the other disciples were indignant with the brothers.
This was an amazing misdirection of focus. Jesus was talking about a humiliating death and they were positioning themselves for prestige!

Jesus corrected their focus when He said that He Himself “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (v. -28).Jesus did not live for Himself but for others. We are not to live for ourselves either. Pride often tempts us to be self-serving. But Jesus points us to the cross, not to a throne.

Pride affects our focus. Remember the suggestion to be at the end of the line? Pride will keep you toward the front.

Woodrow Kroll & Tony Beckett
www.backtothebible.in