Matthew 20:25 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus calls them together and observes how Gentile rulers dominate their people and their great ones wield authority over them.
What Does Matthew 20:25 Mean?
Jesus calls the twelve together and points to a pattern they all know. Among the nations, the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion, lording their power over those beneath them, and the great ones wield authority to be served. This is the world's familiar shape of greatness: rank measured by how many one can command.
By naming this so plainly, Jesus draws a clear line. He does not deny that such authority exists in the world; He simply marks it as the way of those who do not know God's heart. Greatness as domination, as being elevated above others, belongs to earthly kingdoms. Having held up this mirror, He is about to overturn it entirely, offering His followers a wholly different vision of what it means to be great.
Matthew 20:25 in the Original Language
katakurieuo (κατακυριεύω), 'exercise dominion' -- to lord it over, to bring under one's controlling power.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 20:25
What does Matthew 20:25 mean?
Jesus calls them together and observes how Gentile rulers dominate their people and their great ones wield authority over them.