After watching the rich young man walk away and hearing Jesus’ disturbing words, the disciples were “astonished” and “afraid” (Mark 10:32). It is not clear why they felt this way, but perhaps they suspected trouble ahead, in view of some things that Jesus had said earlier.

Jesus had resolutely set out for Jerusalem with His disciples, and now, He told the Twelve about how He would suffer and die (vv. 33–34)—the third such revelation (see 8:31–32; 9:31). This time, Jesus gave seven terrifying details about His death: He would be betrayed, condemned, handed over to the Romans, mocked, spat upon, flogged, and killed. The disciples did not understand how their Master could end up being treated this way. Unbelievable!

In the ensuing conversation, we can see that the disciples did not understand Jesus. James and John, the sons of Zebedee, made a bold request: “We want you to do for us whatever we ask” (10:35). They wanted special seats, immediately to the right and left of Jesus in His glorious kingdom (v. 37).

Jesus must have shaken His head at their ignorant and presumptuous request. They were thinking only of earthly power and glory. Like many of us when we ask for blessings from God, they did not know what they were asking (v. 38). Jesus then turned their thoughts again to the cross by referring to the cup He had to drink and the baptism (of fire) He had to undergo (v. 38). He refused to grant their selfish request, and told them that they would in fact have a share in His sufferings. But they did not understand.

Meanwhile, the other disciples displayed similar ignorance when they got upset with the two brothers (v. 41). Jesus pointed out how foolish and worldly they were. Worldly people want power and authority to lord over others, but in the kingdom, greatness is measured by humility of service. The one who “wants to be first must be slave of all” (v. 44). They must learn from the Son of Man himself. Again, Jesus pointed to the cross when He said He would “give his life as a ransom for many” (v. 45).

Later, when John saw the two thieves crucified on the right and left of Jesus (Luke 23:33), he may have remembered his foolish request and how Jesus had answered him and his brother. Now, he finally understood.