Book of Matthew - Chapter 20 - Verse 25

When Jesus called his disciples to him and spoke about the exercise of dominion and authority among the Gentiles, he was teaching them an important lesson about leadership and servanthood. In this verse, Jesus highlights the difference between the way that worldly leaders and rulers conduct themselves, compared to the way that his followers should behave. Worldly leaders often seek to dominate and control others, using their power and authority to impose their will upon those under them. However, Jesus presents a different model of leadership - one based on humility, service, and love. He calls his disciples to reject the ways of the world and instead embrace a mindset of servanthood, where the greatest among them is the one who serves others selflessly. By using this contrast, Jesus challenges his followers to live out their faith in a radically different way, putting aside their desire for power and influence, and instead focusing on serving others with love and humility.

Jesus' statement in this verse highlights a stark contrast between the leadership styles of the Gentiles and what it should look like among His followers. The word "exercise dominion" used here has a connotation of ruling with force and control, which was the typical approach of the Gentile rulers of that time. However, Jesus goes on to point out that greatness and authority should be demonstrated differently in His kingdom. Rather than lording over others, true greatness is found in serving one another. This concept is further emphasized in other parts of the Gospels, such as when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples to demonstrate the humble nature of true leadership. Through this teaching, Jesus challenges His followers to embody a different kind of leadership, one that reflects His own sacrificial love and servanthood.