Discovery BoxLuke 22:25-27 
Context22:25 So 1 Jesus 2 said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 3 22:26 Not so with you; 4 instead the one who is greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader 5 like the one who serves. 6 22:27 For who is greater, the one who is seated at the table, 7 or the one who serves? Is it not 8 the one who is seated at the table? But I am among you as one 9 who serves.
1 tn Here δέ (de) has been translated as “so” to indicate the implied result of the dispute among the apostles.
2 tn Grk “he”; the referent (Jesus) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
3 sn The title ‘benefactor,’ highlighting grace and meaning something like “helper of the people,” was even given to tyrants (2 Macc 4:2; 3 Macc 3:19; Josephus, J. W. 3.9.8 [3.459]).
4 tn Grk “But you are not thus.”
5 tn Or “the ruler.”
6 sn And the leader like the one who serves. Leadership was not to be a matter of privilege and special status, but of service. All social status is leveled out by these remarks. Jesus himself is the prime example of the servant-leader.
7 tn Grk “who reclines at table,” as 1st century middle eastern meals were not eaten while sitting at a table, but while reclining on one’s side on the floor with the head closest to the low table and the feet farthest away.
8 tn The interrogative particle used here in the Greek text (οὐχί, ouci) expects a positive reply.
9 sn Jesus’ example of humble service, as one who serves, shows that the standard for a disciple is different from that of the world. For an example see John 13:1-17.
