Big Idea: Jesus’ disciples are exhorted to renounce their concern for status, following the example of Jesus himself, who willingly suffers and dies to ransom people.

Understanding the Text

This passage narrates a final teaching opportunity for Jesus’ disciples before arriving in Jerusalem (20:29–21:11). The passage begins with a third passion prediction by Jesus (20:17–19; cf. 16:21; 17:22–23) and ends with the first explicit purpose statement that Jesus provides for his coming death: to be “a ransom for many” (20:28). In this way, the whole of 16:21–20:28 is framed by the anticipation of Jesus’ coming death in Jerusalem. As has been the case throughout 16:21–20:28, the disciples are portrayed as seeking their own interests and status rather than following the pattern of self-denial set…