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Matthew 20:25
ESV But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.
NIV Jesus called them together and said, 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them.
NASB But Jesus called them to Himself and said, 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles domineer over them, and those in high position exercise authority over them.
CSB Jesus called them over and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in high positions act as tyrants over them.
NLT But Jesus called them together and said, 'You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.
KJV 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.

What does Matthew 20:25 mean?

The disciples had plenty of examples of Gentile authorities to draw from. Their nation was occupied by Rome, which at that time was an effective and efficient superpower. Rome grew to that status, in part, by a deep commitment to authority and hierarchy. Roman authorities insisted on being recognized and respected. They allowed broad freedom to those they conquered, so long as those nations were submissive. Those who failed to bow received the harshest of penalties.

Jesus pointed to those Gentile rulers as a negative example of how to lead. He was not rejecting the idea of someone being in charge. Yet He was calling out the Roman tendency to be authoritarian in demanding to be served and obeyed. In part, He is showing conflict among the disciples about who would hold the highest position and the most power was a worldly and unspiritual ambition.

In the following verses, He will show an alternative style of leadership that brings greatness in the kingdom of heaven.
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