Matthew 20:28

[Jazzy]

In Matthew 20:28 (following Mark 10:45), Jesus is teaching the disciples the importance of being humble, as he himself was humble. He illustrates this by saying that he came, not to be served but to serve others. The reference to Jesus being a ransom is an anachronism, since it is a reference to the crucifixion, which is not yet seriously foreseen—the author has used some latitude in his reporting.

In your opinion: What does Matthew 20:28 mean?

 

[Lamb]

Matthew 20:25-28

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

The Jews were expecting their Messiah to be a great ruler on earth, and yet Jesus, was born in an unexpected place and did not seek to place His power over others, as the earthly rulers were doing. A great ruler knows that you don't push your power onto others, but you serve the people so that they can thrive.

Jesus' greatest service was dying for our sins.

The book of Matthew was written after Jesus' death, resurrection and ascension into heaven. So the author knew exactly what took place and was guided by the Holy Spirit.