King James Version

What Does Matthew 20:27 Mean?

Matthew 20:27 in the King James Version says “And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: — study this verse from Matthew chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Matthew 20:27 · KJV


Context

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:

28

Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

29

And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus intensifies the servant leadership principle: 'whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant.' The Greek 'doulos' (servant/slave) is stronger than 'diakonos' (minister) in verse 26—indicating one who belongs entirely to another. The greatest kingdom leaders are the most self-effacing servants. This radically inverts worldly hierarchies. Reformed ecclesiology sees here the pattern for pastoral ministry—shepherds serve the flock, not the reverse. Authority in Christ's church comes through sacrifice, not assertion.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Slavery was ubiquitous in the first-century Roman world. Using 'doulos' shockingly equated leadership with the lowest social status. Jesus deliberately chose offensive imagery to emphasize complete reversal of worldly values. His own example (verse 28) modeled this servant-slave leadership. Early church leadership reflected this ethos, though later corrupted by worldly hierarchies.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does 'slave leadership' look like in contemporary church ministry?
  2. How can you cultivate servant attitudes while holding leadership positions?
  3. What ambitions for recognition need crucifixion?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
καὶ1 of 11

And

G2532

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

ὃς2 of 11
G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἐὰν3 of 11

whosoever

G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

θέλῃ4 of 11

will

G2309

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

ἐν5 of 11

among

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

ὑμῖν6 of 11

you

G5213

to (with or by) you

εἶναι7 of 11

be

G1511

to exist

πρῶτος8 of 11

chief

G4413

foremost (in time, place, order or importance)

ἔστω9 of 11

let him be

G2077

be thou; also ??????? <pronunciation strongs="es'-to-san"/>, third person of the same; let them be

ὑμῶν10 of 11

your

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

δοῦλος·11 of 11

servant

G1401

a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)


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 20:27 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 20:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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