10:35–45 After each of the three predictions of Jesus’ death, there is a discussion between Jesus and his disciples in which he corrects their view of his work and of their role as disciples (cf. 8:32–9:1; 9:33–50); and this passage is the final example. Having just predicted in some detail the ignominious fate that awaits him in Jerusalem, Jesus is approached by two of the inner ring of disciples (see note), who have their eyes only on the glory they imagine for him and for themselves (vv. 35–37). The thrust of Jesus’ reply in verses 41–45 is very similar to his teaching in 9:33–37, emphasizing the image of servant, but there are other features that make this passage somewhat distinctive.

The question put by James and John (vv. 35–37) gives us the first explicit indication of the kind of…