Devine Scripture

Matthew 20:24

What does Matthew 20:24 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 20:24 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 20:24 means

When the "ten heard it," their reaction was one of "indignation concerning the two brethren." This indignation likely stemmed from a combination of jealousy—that James and John had sought such prominence—and also a sense of offense, as they too probably harbored similar ambitions for status in the kingdom. Their anger reveals that the other disciples also misunderstood Jesus' teachings on humility and still wrestled with desires for worldly position.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation concerning the two brethren.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation concerning the two brethren.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And when it came to the ears of the ten, they were angry with the two brothers.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And the ten having heard, were much displeased with the two brothers,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And the ten, hearing it, were moved with indignation against the two brethren.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And the ten, having heard [of it], were indignant about the two brothers.

Context

This verse describes the reaction of the other ten disciples to the ambitious request of James and John and their mother. Their indignation highlights that the desire for prominence was not limited to the sons of Zebedee but was a widespread issue among the disciples. This collective discontent sets the stage for Jesus' broader teaching on servant leadership, which He will address to all Twelve.

v.23He saith unto them, My cup indeed ye shall drink: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left hand, is not mine to give; but it is for them for whom it hath been prepared of my Father.

v.24This passage

v.25But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 22:23

    And they began to question among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing.

  • Philippians 2:3

    doing nothing through faction or through vainglory, but in lowliness of mind each counting other better than himself;

  • Mark 10:41

    And when the ten heard it, they began to be moved with indignation concerning James and John.

  • James 4:5

    Or think ye that the scripture speaketh in vain? Doth the spirit which he made to dwell in us long unto envying?

  • Proverbs 13:10

    By pride cometh only contention; But with the well-advised is wisdom.

  • 1 Corinthians 13:4

    Love suffereth long, and is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

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