King James Version

What Does Matthew 20:25 Mean?

Matthew 20:25 in the King James Version says “But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.

Matthew 20:25 · KJV


Context

23

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.

24

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

25

But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.

26

But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;

27

And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
  2. What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
  3. How should you share this truth with others?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 19 words
1 of 19
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ2 of 19

But

G1161

but, and, etc

Ἰησοῦς3 of 19

Jesus

G2424

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

προσκαλεσάμενος4 of 19

called

G4341

to call toward oneself, i.e., summon, invite

αὐτῶν5 of 19

them

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

εἶπεν6 of 19

unto him and said

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

Οἴδατε7 of 19

Ye know

G1492

used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

ὅτι8 of 19

that

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

οἱ9 of 19
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄρχοντες10 of 19

the princes

G758

a first (in rank or power)

τῶν11 of 19
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐθνῶν12 of 19

of the Gentiles

G1484

a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)

κατακυριεύουσιν13 of 19

exercise dominion over

G2634

to lord against, i.e., control, subjugate

αὐτῶν14 of 19

them

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καὶ15 of 19

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οἱ16 of 19
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μεγάλοι17 of 19

they that are great

G3173

big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)

κατεξουσιάζουσιν18 of 19

exercise authority upon

G2715

to have (wield) full privilege over

αὐτῶν19 of 19

them

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 20:25 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 20:25 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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