Mark 10:40
But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom they have been prepared."
But to sit at My right or left
This phrase refers to positions of honor and authority in the kingdom of God. In ancient times, sitting at the right or left of a king or ruler was a place of high distinction. The Greek word for "sit" (καθίζω, kathizó) implies a settled, established position, indicating permanence and honor. The "right" and "left" symbolize proximity to Jesus, suggesting closeness to His power and glory. Historically, these positions were sought after by those desiring recognition and status, reflecting the disciples' misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and the nature of His kingdom.

is not Mine to grant
Here, Jesus acknowledges the divine order and submission to the Father's will. The Greek word for "grant" (δίδωμι, didōmi) means to give or bestow, indicating that such authority is not within Jesus' earthly ministry to distribute. This statement emphasizes the Trinitarian relationship and the divine prerogative of God the Father. It reflects Jesus' humility and obedience, aligning with the broader scriptural theme that positions of honor in God's kingdom are determined by divine purpose, not human ambition.

These seats belong to those
This phrase indicates that the positions of honor are already designated. The Greek word for "belong" (εἰμί, eimi) is a form of "to be," suggesting a state of existence or being. It implies that these roles are part of God's sovereign plan, predetermined for specific individuals. This aligns with the biblical teaching that God has a unique purpose and calling for each person, and that His plans are established from eternity.

for whom they have been prepared
The concept of preparation here is significant. The Greek word "prepared" (ἑτοιμάζω, hetoimazō) means to make ready or arrange in advance. This suggests that God, in His omniscience and sovereignty, has already arranged the roles and honors in His kingdom according to His divine will. This preparation underscores the biblical principle that God equips and appoints individuals for specific purposes, and that His plans are perfect and unchangeable. It serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's timing and provision, rather than seeking self-promotion or recognition.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, responding to a request from James and John about positions of honor in His kingdom.

2. James and John
The sons of Zebedee, two of Jesus' disciples, who asked for positions of honor in Jesus' glory.

3. The Disciples
The group of Jesus' followers who were present during this teaching moment.

4. The Kingdom of God
The spiritual realm over which God reigns, and the focus of Jesus' teachings and mission.

5. The Prepared Seats
Symbolic of the places of honor in God's kingdom, determined by God's sovereign will.
Teaching Points
Sovereignty of God
God's authority and sovereignty determine the roles and honors in His kingdom, not human ambition.

Humility and Servanthood
True greatness in God's kingdom is found in humility and serving others, following Jesus' example.

Preparedness and Faithfulness
Believers are called to be faithful and prepared for the roles God has assigned them, trusting in His perfect plan.

Eternal Perspective
Focus on eternal rewards and God's purposes rather than earthly recognition and status.

Trust in God's Plan
Trust that God has a specific plan and purpose for each believer, and that His preparation is perfect.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Jesus' response to James and John challenge our understanding of leadership and greatness in the kingdom of God?

2. In what ways can we cultivate humility and servanthood in our daily lives, following Jesus' example?

3. How does the concept of God preparing specific roles for us encourage us to trust in His sovereignty and plan?

4. What are some practical ways we can shift our focus from seeking earthly recognition to pursuing eternal rewards?

5. How can we apply the principle of being faithful in the roles God has given us, as seen in 1 Corinthians 12:18, to our current circumstances?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 20:20-23
This parallel account provides additional context to the request made by James and John, including the involvement of their mother.

Philippians 2:5-11
Highlights the humility of Christ, contrasting the disciples' desire for honor with Jesus' example of servanthood.

1 Corinthians 12:18
Discusses how God arranges the parts of the body, each with its own role, similar to how God prepares places in His kingdom.

Romans 8:17
Speaks of believers as co-heirs with Christ, sharing in His sufferings and glory, which ties into the concept of prepared places.

Revelation 3:21
Promises that those who overcome will sit with Christ on His throne, emphasizing the reward for faithfulness.
A Religion Which Develops the Fit and the UsefulA. H. Powell, M. A.Mark 10:35-45
AmbitionE. Johnson Mark 10:35-45
Christ a ServantT. Kidd.Mark 10:35-45
Christ's Last Journey to JerusalemE. B. Mason.Mark 10:35-45
Greatness Realized in Humble ServiceM. D. Hoge, D. D.Mark 10:35-45
Servant of AllMark 10:35-45
The Ambition of the Apostles: the Sons of ZebedeeJ.J. Given Mark 10:35-45
The Greatness of ServiceC. S. Robinson, D. D.Mark 10:35-45
The Post of HonorR. Green Mark 10:35-45
The Request of the Sons of ZebedeeA. Rowland Mark 10:35-45
The Servant of AllM. D. Hoge, D. D.Mark 10:35-45
People
Bartimaeus, David, James, Jesus, John, Peter, Timaeus, Zabdi, Zebedee
Places
Jericho, Jordan River, Judea, Nazareth, Road to Jerusalem
Topics
Belong, Grant, Places, Prepared, Ready, Reserved, Seated, Sit, Sitting
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Mark 10:40

     2012   Christ, authority

Mark 10:35-40

     1270   right hand of God
     5882   impartiality

Mark 10:35-41

     7025   church, unity

Mark 10:35-45

     2060   Christ, patience of
     5937   rivalry

Mark 10:35-48

     5554   status

Library
June 21 Morning
Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example that ye should follow his steps.--I Peter 2:21. Even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.--Whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. Jesus of Nazareth . . . went about doing good.--Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. The meekness and gentleness of Christ.--In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Father, forgive them: for they know not what they do.--Be
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

June 19 Evening
Gold tried in the fire.--REV. 3.18. There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.--Now for
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

Christ on the Road to the Cross
'And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed they were afraid.' --Mark x. 32. We learn from John's Gospel that the resurrection of Lazarus precipitated the determination of the Jewish authorities to put Christ to death; and that immediately thereafter there was held the council at which, by the advice of Caiaphas, the formal decision was come to. Thereupon our Lord withdrew Himself into the wilderness which stretches south
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Bartimaeus
Blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.'--Mark x. 46. The narrative of this miracle is contained in all the Synoptical Gospels, but the accounts differ in two respects--as to the number of men restored to sight, and as to the scene of the miracle. Matthew tells us that there were two men healed, and agrees with Mark in placing the miracle as Jesus was leaving Jericho. Mark says that there was one, and that the place was outside the gate in departing. Luke, on the other
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

An Eager Coming
'And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus.'--Mark x. 50. Mark's vivid picture--long wail of the man, crowd silencing him, but wheeling round when Christ calls him--and the quick energy of the beggar, flinging away his cloak, springing to his feet--and blind as he was, groping his way. I. What we mean by coming to Jesus:--faith, communion, occupation of mind, heart, and will. II. How eagerly we shall come when we are conscious of need. This man wanted his eyesight: do we not want
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Love's Question
'What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?'--Mark x. 51. 'What wilt Thou have me to do!'--Acts ix. 6. Christ asks the first question of a petitioner, and the answer is a prayer for sight. Saul asks the second question of Jesus, and the answer is a command. Different as they are, we may bring them together. The one is the voice of love, desiring to be besought in order that it may bestow; the other is the voice of love, desiring to be commanded in order that it may obey. Love delights in knowing,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Children and Childlike Men
'And they brought young children to Him, that He should touch them: and His disciples rebuked those that brought them. 14. But when Jesus saw it, He was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. 15. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.' --Mark x. 13-15. It was natural that the parents should have wanted Christ's blessing, so
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Almost a Disciple
'And when He was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to Him, and asked Him. Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life! 18. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou Me good! there is none good but one, that is, God. 19. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. 20. And he answered and said unto Him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Dignity and Service
'And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto Him, saying, Master, we would that Thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire. 36. And He said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you? 37. They said unto Him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on Thy right hand, and the other on Thy left hand, in Thy glory. 38. But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of! and he baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with! 39. And they said
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

November the Second Leading to Christ
"Suffer little children to come unto Me." --MARK x. 13-22. "Unto Me!" We must not keep them at any half-way house. We are so prone to be satisfied if only we bring them a little way along the road. If we get them to pray! If we get them to attend the Lord's house! If we get them to be truthful and gentle! All of which is unspeakably good. It is a blessed thing to be in "the ways of Zion"; it is a far more blessed thing to be in the palace with Zion's King and Lord. When we are dealing with little
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

The Lord Our Righteousness
Jeremiah 23:6 -- "The Lord our Righteousness." Whoever is acquainted with the nature of mankind in general, or the propensity of his own heart in particular, must acknowledge, that self- righteousness is the last idol that is rooted out of the heart: being once born under a covenant of works, it is natural for us all to have recourse to a covenant of works, for our everlasting salvation. And we have contracted such devilish pride, by our fall from God, that we would, if not wholly, yet in part at
George Whitefield—Selected Sermons of George Whitefield

Children Brought to Christ, and not to the Font
The Scripture before us is by several of the champions on the other side exhibited to the people as a rebuke to me. Their reasoning is rather ingenious than forcible: forsooth, because the disciples incurred the displeasure of Jesus Christ by keeping back the little children from coming to Him, therefore Jesus Christ is greatly displeased with me, and with all others like me, for keeping children from the font, and the performance there enacted; and specially displeased with me for exposing the Anglican
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 10: 1864

The Blind Beggar
This morning I shall address myself most particularly to the poor and blind souls here to-day. The poor blind man's faith described in this passage of Scripture, is a fit picture of the faith which I pray God you may be enabled to exert to the saving of your souls. We shall notice the origin of his faith, how his faith perceived its opportunity when Jesus passed by; we shall listen to his faith while it cries and begs; we shall look upon his faith while it leaps in joyous obedience to the divine
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 5: 1859

The Hardness of the Way.
"Children, how hard is it!"--St. Mark x. 24. I suspect there is scarcely a young man rich and thoughtful who is not ready to feel our Lord's treatment of this young man hard. He is apt to ask, "Why should it be difficult for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven?" He is ready to look upon the natural fact as an arbitrary decree, arising, shall I say? from some prejudice in the divine mind, or at least from some objection to the joys of well-being, as regarded from the creatures' side.
George MacDonald—Unspoken Sermons

The Domestic Relation.
When we speak of home life with its relations and duties we are not digressing from the subject of gospel light. Nowhere does the light of Christianity shine so peaceful and beautiful as in the home. Nowhere is the power of its influence so felt as in the home circle. The public worship of Christians is an inspiring scene, but nothing apparently is so heavenly as the sacred family altar. A father and mother whose hearts are filled with holy love together with happy, obedient children bowing together
Charles Ebert Orr—The Gospel Day

The Careless Sinner Awakened.
1, 2. It is too supposable a case that this Treatise may come into such hands.--3, 4. Since many, not grossly vicious, fail under that character.--5, 6. A more particular illustration of this case, with an appeal to the reader, whether it be not his own.--7 to 9. Expostulation with such.--10 to 12. More particularly--From acknowledged principles relating to the Nature of Got, his universal presence, agency, and perfection.--13. From a view of personal obligations to him.--14. From the danger Of this
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul

The Value of Life
Whatever our present conceptions of Jesus Christ may be, we ought to approach our study of his teachings with a sense of reverence. With the slenderest human means at his disposal, within a brief span of time, he raised our understanding of God and of human life to new levels forever, and set forces in motion which revolutionized history. Of his teachings we have only fragments, but they have an inexhaustible vitality. In this course we are to examine these as our source material in order to discover,
Walter Rauschenbusch—The Social Principles of Jesus

Tenth Lesson. What Wilt Thou?'
What wilt thou?' Or, Prayer must be Definite. And Jesus answered him, and said, What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?'--Mark x. 51; Luke xviii. 41. THE blind man had been crying out aloud, and that a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.' The cry had reached the ear of the Lord; He knew what he wanted, and was ready to grant it him. But ere He does it, He asks him: What wilt thou that I should do unto thee?' He wants to hear from his own lips, not only the general petition
Andrew Murray—With Christ in the School of Prayer

Questions and Answers--Sorrowful Cases--Testimonies from those who have Visited Canada--Stewardship.
Questions and Answers--Sorrowful Cases--Testimonies from those who have visited Canada--Stewardship. The fallowing plain answers to practical questions, are written by those well acquainted with the work:-- I. "Are these children really street Arabs? If not, where do you find so many?" In the early days of the work, before the establishment of School Boards and kindred institutions, a large proportion of the children were actually taken from the streets. Now, the rescue work begins farther back,
Clara M. S. Lowe—God's Answers

The Journey to Jerusalem
"And they went in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them; and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid."--Mark 10:32. "Jesu, was hat dich getrieben." [38]Laurentius Laurenti. transl., Sarah Findlater, 1855 Jesus! what was that which drew Thee To Jerusalem's ancient gate? Ah! the love that burned so truly, Would not suffer Thee to wait! On Thou journeyedst, thus securing Me a city more enduring! To my spirit now draw nearer, Lord, as to Jerusalem! Let each moment
Jane Borthwick—Hymns from the Land of Luther

The Footsteps
"Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of."--Mark x. 39. Mechthild of Hellfde, 1277. tr., Emma Frances Bevan, 1899 Behold, My bride, how fair My mouth, Mine eyes; My heart is glowing fire, My hand is grace-- And see how swift My foot, and follow Me. For thou with Me shalt scorned and martyred be, Betrayed by envy, tempted in the wilds, And seized by hate, and bound by calumny; And they shall bind thine eyes lest thou should'st see, By hiding Mine eternal truth from thee. And they shall scourge
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen and Others (Second Series)

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