New Testament
Matthew 20:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus answered, "You don't understand what you're asking for. Can you drink the cup that I am about to drink and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" They replied, "We can."
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But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.
What Matthew 20:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is responding to a request from James and John, who want to sit at His right and left in His kingdom. He tells them 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 trials He will face. When they confidently reply that they can endure these things, they are unaware of the depth of commitment and suffering involved in following Him. Jesus is highlighting that true leadership and glory come through suffering and sacrifice, not just privilege and honor.
How to apply Matthew 20:22 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider the cost of following Jesus. It reminds us that true discipleship involves suffering and sacrifice. We should reflect on our own commitments and be prepared to face challenges in our faith journey, understanding that glory comes through perseverance.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: “Grant That We May Sit” (Matthew 20:20–28)
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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 Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does the 'cup' represent in Matthew 20:22?
In Matthew 20:22, the 'cup' symbolizes the suffering and sacrifice that Jesus is about to endure, particularly His impending crucifixion. It signifies the trials and tribulations He will face as part of His mission to redeem humanity. By asking if James and John can drink from this cup, Jesus is highlighting the serious nature of their request to share in His glory.
What does the 'baptism' refer to in this verse?
The 'baptism' mentioned in Matthew 20:22 refers to the trials and challenges that Jesus will experience, particularly His suffering and death. It signifies a deep immersion into the hardships of His mission. When Jesus asks if James and John can be baptized with the same baptism, He is questioning their readiness to endure similar trials for the sake of their faith.
Why did James and John respond confidently to Jesus?
James and John responded confidently to Jesus by saying, 'We can,' because they were eager and zealous to follow Him. However, their response reflects a lack of understanding of the true cost of discipleship. They were focused on the glory of being close to Jesus in His kingdom, not fully grasping the suffering and sacrifice that would precede that glory.
What lesson can we learn about discipleship from this verse?
Matthew 20:22 teaches us that true discipleship involves understanding the cost associated with following Jesus. It challenges us to recognize that being a disciple may require enduring hardships and sacrifices. The verse encourages believers to reflect on their commitment to Christ and to be prepared for the challenges that come with living out their faith.
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