Mark 10:35

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus and declared, "Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask."

Study Bible

Then
The word "then" serves as a transitional marker, indicating a continuation of events. In the context of Mark's Gospel, this moment follows Jesus' third prediction of His suffering and death. The Greek word used here is "τότε" (tote), which often signifies a sequence of events. This transition highlights the disciples' misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, as they are still focused on earthly glory rather than the sacrificial path Jesus is about to undertake.

James and John
James and John, known as the "sons of Zebedee," were among Jesus' closest disciples. Their request reflects their prominent position within the group. Historically, these brothers were fishermen before being called by Jesus (Mark 1:19-20). Their boldness in approaching Jesus may reflect their confidence in their relationship with Him, yet it also reveals their human ambition and misunderstanding of the nature of Jesus' kingdom.

the sons of Zebedee
This phrase identifies James and John by their father, Zebedee, a common practice in Jewish culture to denote lineage and family identity. Zebedee was likely a man of some means, as he had hired servants (Mark 1:20). The mention of their father underscores the familial ties and possibly the expectations of honor and status that James and John carried with them.

came to Jesus
The act of coming to Jesus signifies a deliberate approach, seeking a personal audience with Him. In the Greek, "προσέρχομαι" (proserchomai) implies drawing near with intention. This approach is significant as it shows their desire for direct communication with Jesus, yet it also sets the stage for their misunderstanding of His mission.

and declared
The word "declared" suggests a bold and assertive statement. The Greek "λέγω" (lego) means to speak or say, often with authority or emphasis. This choice of word indicates that James and John were not merely asking but were making a confident request, reflecting their misunderstanding of the nature of Jesus' kingdom.

Teacher
Addressing Jesus as "Teacher" (Greek "Διδάσκαλε," Didaskale) acknowledges His role as a rabbi and instructor. This title shows respect and recognition of His authority in spiritual matters. However, it also highlights the irony that, despite recognizing Him as a teacher, they fail to grasp the lessons He has been imparting about servanthood and sacrifice.

we want You to do for us
This phrase reveals the self-centered nature of their request. The Greek "θέλομεν" (thelomen) indicates a strong desire or wish. Their focus is on what they want, rather than seeking to understand Jesus' will or purpose. This reflects a common human tendency to prioritize personal desires over divine plans.

whatever we ask
The phrase "whatever we ask" underscores the open-ended and presumptuous nature of their request. It suggests a lack of understanding of the cost of discipleship and the nature of Jesus' mission. In the Greek, "ὅ τι ἐὰν αἰτήσωμεν" (ho ti ean aitēsōmen) implies a carte blanche request, highlighting their expectation of special favor and privilege.

Persons / Places / Events

1. James and John
Known as the "sons of Zebedee," these two brothers were among the first disciples called by Jesus. They were part of Jesus' inner circle, along with Peter. Their request to Jesus in this passage reveals their ambition and misunderstanding of Jesus' mission.

2. Jesus
The central figure of the New Testament, Jesus is approached by James and John with a request that reflects their human desires for status and power.

3. The Request
This event occurs as Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem, where He will face crucifixion. The timing of their request highlights a contrast between Jesus' path of suffering and the disciples' desire for glory.

Teaching Points

Understanding True Greatness
True greatness in the Kingdom of God is not about positions of power or authority but about serving others selflessly, as Jesus demonstrated.

The Danger of Ambition
Ambition, when not aligned with God's will, can lead to misunderstanding and misplaced priorities. We must seek God's guidance in our desires and ambitions.

The Call to Servanthood
Jesus calls His followers to a life of servanthood, where we put others' needs before our own, reflecting His example of humility and sacrifice.

Aligning Desires with God's Will
Our requests to God should align with His will and purpose for our lives. We should seek to understand His plans rather than impose our own desires.

The Role of Prayer in Seeking God's Will
Prayer is a vital tool for aligning our hearts with God's will. It is through prayer that we can discern His guidance and direction for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the request of James and John reveal about their understanding of Jesus' mission and the nature of His Kingdom?

2. How does Jesus' response to James and John challenge our own ambitions and desires for recognition or power?

3. In what ways can we practice servanthood in our daily lives, following the example of Jesus?

4. How can we ensure that our prayers and requests to God align with His will and purpose for us?

5. Reflect on a time when your ambitions were not aligned with God's will. What did you learn from that experience, and how did it change your perspective on true greatness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 20:20-28
This parallel account provides additional context, including the involvement of the mother of James and John in making the request. It emphasizes the theme of servanthood over seeking positions of power.

Philippians 2:5-8
This passage speaks to the humility of Christ, who, though being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage. It contrasts with the disciples' request for personal glory.

Luke 22:24-27
This passage discusses a similar dispute among the disciples about who is the greatest, where Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from serving others.