What does Luke 22:24 mean?

The disciples go from fretting about which of them will betray Jesus to arguing over which will be the greatest. It is a common discussion among these men by now (Matthew 18:1); the tone ranges from joking to outright combat. Jesus isn't amused. Luke is the only writer who puts this discussion in the Last Supper. There's no reason to believe Jesus didn't have to teach this material more than once (Matthew 20:20–28; Mark 10:35–45; Luke 9:46–48). Some scholars suggest this originally followed Luke 22:16. This would suggest that Jesus' comments about His betrayer come after Jesus' promise about the twelve thrones (Luke 22:30), and that Luke rearranged the sections for effect.

That's possible, as ancient writers were focused on concepts, not strict chronology. Not long before, Jesus had told the disciples that He would return in glory (Luke 21:25–28), and they still think Jesus is about to become king. Now, He reaffirms their high ranking in His kingdom (Luke 22:28–30). Some scholars think this argument sets the scene for Jesus to wash the disciples' feet in a show of humble servant leadership (John 13:1–11).

The way it is placed here presents the events in a chiasm—a mirrored arrangement—that sets Luke 22:24–30 in the center. The focal point of the chapter becomes: Who do we want to be? Do we want to scrabble for power and rule harshly? Or do we want to follow Jesus' example of servant-leadership and accept the position and authority the Father has prepared for us?