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Matthew 20:26

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

But that's not how it works with you all. If you want to be great, then serve everyone else.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Real greatness isn't about being served, it's about serving others.

📚 Historical Context

In the first century, Jewish and Roman cultures often emphasized hierarchical structures where leaders gained status through authority and control, as seen in the disciples' arguments about positions of power. Jesus was addressing this mindset directly after the mother of James and John requested prominent seats for her sons in his kingdom, using it as a teachable moment from the parable of the workers in the vineyard. This teaching contrasted sharply with worldly views by promoting a servant-hearted approach to leadership within his followers.

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