Luke 22:24 Meaning and Explanation
“And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A dispute breaks out among the apostles over which of them should be counted the greatest.
What Does Luke 22:24 Mean?
Minutes after the bread and cup, with the shadow of betrayal still on the table, the twelve fall to arguing rank. Luke's word for 'strife' means love of contention - rivalry. Perhaps the seating order at the feast sparked it; pride needs little kindling.
The scene would be comic if it were not so familiar: the Lord speaks of his body given, and his friends discuss their own standing. Yet Jesus does not despair of them; he patiently teaches (verses 25-27) and even honors them (verses 28-30). He still bears with disciples who bring their ambitions to his table, and he still redirects them toward service.
Luke 22:24 in the Original Language
philoneikia (φιλονεικία), 'strife' -- love of contention; eagerness for rivalry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 22:24
What does Luke 22:24 mean?
A dispute breaks out among the apostles over which of them should be counted the greatest.