New Testament
Mark 10:37
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They answered, "When you come into your glory, let one of us sit at your right hand and the other at your left."
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They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.
What Mark 10:37 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, James and John, two of Jesus' disciples, are expressing their desire for positions of honor in Jesus' future kingdom. They ask to sit at His right and left hands, which symbolize power and authority. This request reveals their misunderstanding of Jesus' mission and the nature of His glory. They envision a political kingdom where Jesus reigns as a powerful leader, but Jesus' glory is tied to His suffering and sacrifice. He later teaches them that true greatness in His kingdom comes from serving others, not seeking power. This moment highlights the human tendency to seek status and recognition, often missing the deeper spiritual truths of humility and service that Jesus embodies. Their request also sets the stage for Jesus to explain the cost of discipleship and the true meaning of leadership in His kingdom, which contrasts sharply with worldly views of power and authority.
How to apply Mark 10:37 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own desires for recognition and power. Instead of seeking positions of honor, we should focus on serving others and embodying humility. True leadership in our lives reflects Jesus' example of selflessness and sacrifice, encouraging us to prioritize the needs of others over our own ambitions.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: “Grant That We May Sit” (Mark 10:35–45)
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John the Apostle
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 10:37 mean?
Mark 10:37 shows James and John asking Jesus for positions of honor in His kingdom, wanting to sit at His right and left hands. This request highlights their misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, as they associate His glory with political power rather than the suffering He would endure.
What is the meaning of 'right hand' and 'left hand' in Mark 10:37?
In Mark 10:37, sitting at the right hand and left hand of Jesus symbolizes positions of power and authority. James and John are expressing their desire for high status in what they believe will be a glorious kingdom.
How does Mark 10:37 relate to the concept of discipleship?
Mark 10:37 relates to discipleship by showing that true followers of Jesus must understand that greatness comes from serving others, not seeking power. This moment sets the stage for Jesus to teach about the cost of discipleship and the nature of true leadership.
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