New Testament
Mark 10:38
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Jesus said to them, "You don't know what you're asking. Can you drink the cup that I drink? Can you be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?"
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But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?
What Mark 10:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus responds to His disciples who are seeking positions of honor in His kingdom. He points out that they do not fully understand the implications of their request. The 'cup' symbolizes the suffering and sacrifice He is about to endure, while the 'baptism' refers to the overwhelming experience of His impending trials. Jesus is essentially asking if they are prepared to face the same hardships and challenges that He will face. This moment highlights the difference between earthly ambitions and the true nature of discipleship, which involves suffering and service. Jesus emphasizes that true greatness in His kingdom comes through humility and sacrifice, not through seeking power or prestige. His question serves as a reminder that following Him requires a willingness to endure trials and to embrace a life of service, reflecting His own journey of suffering for the sake of others.
How to apply Mark 10:38 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on our own desires for recognition and success. It reminds us that true discipleship involves embracing challenges and serving others selflessly. We should be prepared to face difficulties in our faith journey, just as Jesus did, and seek to understand the deeper meaning of following Him.
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 10:38 mean?
In Mark 10:38, Jesus tells His disciples that they do not understand the seriousness of their request for positions of honor. He uses the 'cup' and 'baptism' as metaphors for the suffering and trials He will face, highlighting that true discipleship involves enduring hardships.
What is the significance of the 'cup' in Mark 10:38?
The 'cup' in Mark 10:38 symbolizes the suffering and sacrifice that Jesus is about to endure. It represents the trials He will face leading to His crucifixion, emphasizing the cost of following Him.
What does the 'baptism' refer to in Mark 10:38?
In Mark 10:38, the 'baptism' refers to the overwhelming experiences and trials that Jesus will undergo. It signifies the depth of His suffering and the commitment required of His followers.
How does Mark 10:38 relate to discipleship?
Mark 10:38 illustrates that discipleship involves embracing challenges and serving others. Jesus teaches that following Him requires a readiness to endure trials and sacrifices, reflecting His own journey.
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