Matthew 20:22 – “‘You don’t know what you are asking,’ Jesus said to them. ‘Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?’ ‘We can,’ they answered.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus responds to the request from the mother of James and John for her sons to sit at His right and left in His Kingdom. He addresses James and John directly, pointing out that they do not fully understand the nature of their request. The “cup” Jesus refers to symbolizes the suffering and sacrifice He will endure. By asking if they can “drink the cup,” Jesus is challenging their readiness to face the trials and suffering that come with following Him.
Their confident response, “We can,” shows their eagerness but also their lack of understanding about what discipleship truly entails. This moment sets the stage for Jesus to teach about the cost of following Him and the humility required in His Kingdom.
Historical Context
The “cup” is a metaphor rooted in Jewish tradition and Scripture, often used to represent an individual’s fate or divine judgment. For example, in Psalm 75:8, the cup represents God’s judgment. In the context of Jesus’ ministry, it specifically refers to His suffering and death on the cross.
At this point, James and John likely still envisioned Jesus establishing a political kingdom where they could hold positions of power. They did not yet grasp that Jesus’ mission was to bring salvation through sacrifice, not by force or domination.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the cost of discipleship. Following Jesus is not about seeking glory or status but about embracing sacrifice and suffering for the sake of God’s Kingdom. Jesus’ question challenges all believers to consider whether they are willing to follow Him fully, even when it requires enduring trials and hardships.
It also reveals human limitations in understanding God’s plan. James and John’s response shows their enthusiasm but also their lack of comprehension about the depth of Jesus’ mission and the true nature of His Kingdom.
Literary Analysis
This verse creates a tension between human ambition and divine purpose. Jesus’ statement, “You don’t know what you are asking,” immediately contrasts the disciples’ desire for status with the reality of suffering. The use of the metaphor “drink the cup” adds depth and foreshadows Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.
The confident reply, “We can,” reflects the disciples’ eagerness but also their naivety, setting up the opportunity for Jesus to teach about humility and servanthood.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:10 – “Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer.” This highlights the suffering that was central to Jesus’ mission.
- Luke 22:42 – “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” This shows Jesus’ acceptance of the suffering He would endure for our salvation.
- Romans 8:17 – “Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” This reflects the connection between suffering and glory in the Christian life.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse challenges us to examine our willingness to follow Jesus, even when it involves sacrifice and suffering. It reminds us that discipleship is not about seeking personal glory but about humbly serving others and being faithful to God’s calling.
The verse also encourages us to trust God’s plan, even when we don’t fully understand it. Like James and John, we may not grasp the full implications of following Jesus, but we can trust that His way leads to life and hope.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love through Jesus’ willingness to guide His disciples patiently, even when they misunderstand His mission. By challenging their request, Jesus lovingly redirects their focus from personal ambition to the true nature of His Kingdom.
God’s love is also evident in His plan for redemption. The “cup” of suffering that Jesus willingly drank demonstrates His immense love for humanity, as He bore the weight of sin to reconcile us to God.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse directly points to Jesus’ mission as the suffering servant. The “cup” symbolizes the sacrifice He would make on the cross, taking on the punishment for sin and providing salvation for all who believe in Him. His willingness to drink this cup shows His obedience to God’s will and His love for humanity (John 3:16).
It also highlights Jesus’ role as a teacher who prepares His followers for the challenges of discipleship. By asking James and John if they can drink the cup, He begins to teach them about the cost of following Him and the call to serve others selflessly.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jesus’ question, “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” challenge your understanding of discipleship?
- Are there areas in your life where you are seeking personal glory rather than serving others humbly?
- What does this verse teach you about the cost of following Jesus and the sacrifices it may require?
- How can you trust God’s plan, even when it involves trials or suffering?
- In what ways can you reflect Jesus’ humility and obedience in your own life?
This verse calls us to reflect on the depth of our commitment to Jesus and the true nature of discipleship. It reminds us that following Him involves sacrifice, but it also leads to eternal life and the joy of serving in His Kingdom.