As Jesus and his disciples approach Jerusalem, Jesus reminds them for the third time that he will suffer, die and rise from the dead. As with the two previous announcements, the disciples fail to understand his teaching and Jesus has to challenge them again. John and James show how much they misunderstand Jesus when they ask for the places of honor in his kingdom. Once more Jesus has to teach them and all those who want to become his followers that to be his disciple is to become servants and even slaves to all, following his own example of total self-giving. When James and John asked for the seats of honor next to Jesus, they wanted to be important people, to whom the rest would render homage and service. In the kingdom of Jesus, the leader is there, not to exploit others or to be honored and served by them, but rather to be their servant. In Jerusalem it will cost him his life. Jesus sees his death as loving service (Mk 10:45). This expression will be taken up at the Last Supper that Jesus will celebrate with the disciples. As he gave the cup of wine to his disciples, Jesus tells them that it represents his blood, the blood of the covenant which will be "poured out for many." The expression "for many" means for everybody. Jesus gives himself to save all people. Nobody is excluded.
| mark_10_vs_35-45_pentecost_21_bible_study_2015.pdf |
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