Matthew 20:20

Then the mother of Zebedee's sons came to Jesus with her sons and knelt down to make a request of Him.

Study Bible

Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons
This phrase introduces us to the mother of James and John, two of Jesus' closest disciples. The mention of "Zebedee's sons" ties back to Matthew 4:21, where James and John are called by Jesus while mending nets with their father, Zebedee. The family context is significant, as it highlights the close-knit nature of the disciples' relationships and the involvement of their families in their ministry. Historically, Zebedee was likely a man of some means, as he had hired servants (Mark 1:20), which may have given his family a certain status or influence.

came to Jesus
The act of coming to Jesus signifies a deliberate approach, indicating both respect and urgency. In the cultural context of the time, it was not uncommon for family members to advocate for one another, especially in matters of honor and position. This approach to Jesus shows the mother's faith in His authority and her belief in His ability to grant her request.

with her sons
The presence of James and John alongside their mother suggests their complicity in the request that follows. It reflects a family united in their ambition and desire for prominence within Jesus' kingdom. This detail underscores the human tendency to seek status and recognition, even among those closest to Jesus.

and knelt down
Kneeling is a posture of humility and reverence, often associated with worship or a plea for favor. This act demonstrates the mother's recognition of Jesus' authority and her willingness to submit to His will. In the cultural and historical context, kneeling before a rabbi or teacher was a sign of deep respect and acknowledgment of their spiritual leadership.

to make a request of Him
The phrase "to make a request" indicates a specific petition or desire. In the Greek, the word used here for "request" (αἰτέω, aiteo) often implies asking with a sense of urgency or need. This highlights the mother's earnestness and the importance she places on her sons' future roles. Theologically, this moment sets the stage for Jesus to teach about true greatness and servanthood in His kingdom, contrasting human ambition with divine purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Mother of Zebedee’s Sons
This woman is traditionally identified as Salome, the mother of James and John, two of Jesus' disciples. She approaches Jesus with a request for her sons.

2. James and John
Known as the "sons of Zebedee," they are two of Jesus' closest disciples. They are often referred to as the "Sons of Thunder" (Mark 3:17).

3. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, the Son of God, and the teacher to whom the request is made.

4. The Request
The mother of James and John asks Jesus for a special favor for her sons, which is to sit at His right and left in His kingdom.

5. The Setting
This event takes place during Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, where He is preparing His disciples for His impending death and resurrection.

Teaching Points

Understanding True Greatness
True greatness in the kingdom of God is not about positions of power but about servanthood and humility. Jesus teaches that the greatest among us must be a servant.

The Role of Ambition
Ambition is not inherently wrong, but it must be aligned with God's will and purposes. Our desires should reflect a heart of service rather than self-promotion.

Parental Influence
The request made by the mother of James and John highlights the influence parents can have on their children's spiritual aspirations. It is important for parents to guide their children towards godly ambitions.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus involves sacrifice and a willingness to share in His sufferings. The request for positions of honor must be weighed against the call to take up one's cross.

Prayer and Requests
When making requests to God, it is crucial to seek His will above our own desires. Our prayers should be rooted in a desire to glorify God rather than seeking personal gain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the request made by the mother of James and John reflect common human desires for status and recognition? How can we guard against these desires in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Jesus' response to this request challenge our understanding of leadership and greatness? How can we apply this understanding in our daily interactions?

3. How can parents encourage their children to pursue godly ambitions without imposing their own desires on them? What biblical principles can guide this process?

4. Reflect on a time when your ambitions conflicted with God's will. How did you reconcile the two, and what did you learn from the experience?

5. How can we ensure that our prayers and requests align with God's purposes? What role does humility play in our approach to prayer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Mark 10:35-45
This parallel passage provides additional context and details about the request made by James and John themselves, highlighting their ambition and misunderstanding of Jesus' mission.

Matthew 19:28
Jesus previously promised that His disciples would sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel, which may have influenced the request.

Philippians 2:5-11
This passage emphasizes humility and servanthood, contrasting the disciples' desire for status with Jesus' example of selflessness.