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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Matthew 20:23 "You will indeed drink My cup," Jesus said. "But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/matthew/20-23.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/2/40_Mat_20_23.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Matthew 20:23 - A Mother's Request" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="You will indeed drink My cup, Jesus said. But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. 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These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared by my Father.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/matthew/20.htm">New Living Translation</a> Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.” <a href="/esv/matthew/20.htm">English Standard Version</a> He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” <a href="/bsb/matthew/20.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> “You will indeed drink My cup,” Jesus said. “But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them.” <a href="/blb/matthew/20.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> He says to them, "Indeed you will drink My cup, but to sit on My right hand and on My left, this is not Mine to give, but for whom it has been prepared by My Father." <a href="/kjv/matthew/20.htm">King James Bible</a> And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. <a href="/nkjv/matthew/20.htm">New King James Version</a> So He said to them, “You will indeed drink My cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father.” <a href="/nasb_/matthew/20.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> He said to them, “My cup you shall drink; but to sit at My right and at My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.” <a href="/nasb/matthew/20.htm">NASB 1995</a> He said to them, &#8220My cup you shall drink; but to sit on My right and on My left, this is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/matthew/20.htm">NASB 1977 </a> He said to them, “My cup you shall drink; but to sit on My right and on My left, this is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.” <a href="/lsb/matthew/20.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> He said to them, “My cup you shall drink; but to sit on My right and on My left, this is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.” <a href="/amp/matthew/20.htm">Amplified Bible</a> He said to them, “You will drink My cup [of suffering]; but to sit on My right and on My left this is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.” <a href="/csb/matthew/20.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> He told them, “You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right and left is not mine to give; instead, it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” <a href="/hcsb/matthew/20.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> He told them, &#8220You will indeed drink My cup. But to sit at My right and left is not Mine to give; instead, it belongs to those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.&#8221 <a href="/asv/matthew/20.htm">American Standard Version</a> He saith unto them, My cup indeed ye shall drink: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left hand, is not mine to give; but it is for them for whom it hath been prepared of my Father. <a href="/cev/matthew/20.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Jesus replied, "You certainly will drink from my cup! But it isn't for me to say who will sit at my right side and at my left. This is for my Father to say." <a href="/erv/matthew/20.htm">English Revised Version</a> He saith unto them, My cup indeed ye shall drink: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left hand, is not mine to give, but it is for them for whom it hath been prepared of my Father. <a href="/gwt/matthew/20.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Jesus said to them, "You will drink my cup. But I don't have the authority to grant you a seat at my right or left. My Father has already prepared these positions for certain people." <a href="/gnt/matthew/20.htm">Good News Translation</a> "You will indeed drink from my cup," Jesus told them, "but I do not have the right to choose who will sit at my right and my left. These places belong to those for whom my Father has prepared them." <a href="/isv/matthew/20.htm">International Standard Version</a> He told them, "You will indeed drink from my cup. But it's not up to me to grant you a seat at my right hand or at my left. These positions have already been prepared for others by my Father." <a href="/net/matthew/20.htm">NET Bible</a> He told them, "You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right and at my left is not mine to give. Rather, it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." <a href="/nheb/matthew/20.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> He said to them, "You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it is for whom it has been prepared by my Father." <a href="/wbt/matthew/20.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And he saith to them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared by my Father. <a href="/wey/matthew/20.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "You shall drink out of my cup," He said, "but a seat at my right hand or at my left it is not for me to allot, but it belongs to those for whom it has been prepared by my Father."<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/matthew/20.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> “You will indeed drink My cup and be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized,” Jesus said. “But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them.” <a href="/web/matthew/20.htm">World English Bible</a> He said to them, “You will indeed drink my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give, but it is for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/matthew/20.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And He says to them, “Of My cup indeed you will drink, and with the immersion that I am immersed with you will be immersed; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but—to those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.” <a href="/blb/matthew/20.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> He says to them, "Indeed you will drink My cup, but to sit on My right hand and on My left, this is not Mine to give, but for whom it has been prepared by My Father." <a href="/ylt/matthew/20.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And he saith to them, 'Of my cup indeed ye shall drink, and with the baptism that I am baptized with ye shall be baptized; but to sit on my right hand and on my left is not mine to give, but -- to those for whom it hath been prepared by my father.' <a href="/slt/matthew/20.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And he says to them, Truly my cup shall ye drink, and with the immersion which I am immersed shall ye be immersed; but to sit on my right, and on my left, is not mine to give, but to those it was prepared for by my Father.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/matthew/20.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> He saith to them: My chalice indeed you shall drink; but to sit on my right or left hand, is not mine to give to you, but to them for whom it is prepared by my Father. <a href="/cpdv/matthew/20.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> He said to them: “From my chalice, indeed, you shall drink. But to sit at my right or my left is not mine to give to you, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” <a href="/nabre/matthew/20.htm">New American Bible</a> He replied, “My cup you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left [, this] is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” <a href="/nrsvce/matthew/20.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> He said to them, “You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left, this is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/matthew/20.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> He said to them, Indeed my cup you shall drink, and the baptism with which I am to be baptized, you too shall be baptized with; but to sit at my right hand and at my left, that is not mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by my Father. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/matthew/20.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> He said to them, “You will drink my cup and you will be baptized in the baptism in which I am baptized, but for you to sit at my right and at my left is not mine to give except to those for whom it is prepared by my Father.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/matthew/20.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And he said to them: You shall drink my cup, and be immersed with the immersion with which I am immersed: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it has been prepared by my Father.<CM> <a href="/godbey/matthew/20.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And He says to them, <FR>You shall indeed drink my cup, but to sit on my right, and on my left, this is not mine to give, but it belongs to those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.<Fr> <a href="/haweis/matthew/20.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And he saith unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of my cup, and with the baptism with which I am baptised, shall ye be baptised; but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, it is not in my power to bestow, but on those, for whom it was prepared by my Father.<CM> <a href="/mace/matthew/20.htm">Mace New Testament</a> he replied, ye shall indeed drink of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, I cannot grant to any but those whom my father has destin'd thereto. <a href="/wey/matthew/20.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> "You shall drink out of my cup," He said, "but a seat at my right hand or at my left it is not for me to allot, but it belongs to those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." <a href="/worrell/matthew/20.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> He saith to them, <FR>"My cup, indeed, ye shall drink; but to sit on My right hand, and on My left, is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father."<Fr> <a href="/worsley/matthew/20.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> They replied, We are able. And He saith unto them, <FR>Ye shall indeed drink of my cup, and shall be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on my right hand and on my left is not mine to give, but <Fr>to those<FR> for whom it is prepared by my Father.<Fr> <a href="/parallel/matthew/20-23.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hriiyJYqzvc?start=5826" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/matthew/20.htm">A Mother's Request</a> …22“You do not know what you are asking,” Jesus replied. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?” “We can,” the brothers answered. 23<a href="/greek/3303.htm" title="3303: men (Conj) -- A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de.">“</a> <a href="/greek/4095.htm" title="4095: piesthe (V-FIM-2P) -- To drink, imbibe. A prolonged form of pio, which poo occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses; to imbibe.">You will indeed drink</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">My</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: To (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4221.htm" title="4221: potērion (N-ANS) -- A drinking cup, the contents of the cup; fig: the portion which God allots. ">cup,”</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: Legei (V-PIA-3S) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">Jesus said.</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autois (PPro-DM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">“But</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2523.htm" title="2523: kathisai (V-ANA) -- Another form for kathezomai; to seat down, i.e. Set; intransitively, to sit; figuratively, to settle.">to sit</a> <a href="/greek/1537.htm" title="1537: ek (Prep) -- From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out.">at</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">My</a> <a href="/greek/1188.htm" title="1188: dexiōn (Adj-GNP) -- On the right hand, right hand, right. From dechomai; the right side or hand.">right</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">or</a> <a href="/greek/1537.htm" title="1537: ex (Prep) -- From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out."></a> <a href="/greek/2176.htm" title="2176: euōnymōn (Adj-GNP) -- From eu and onoma; properly, well-named, i.e. The left; neuter as adverbial, at the left hand.">left</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: touto (DPro-ANS) -- This; he, she, it. "></a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">is</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/1699.htm" title="1699: emon (PPro-NN1S) -- My, mine. From the oblique cases of ego; my.">Mine</a> <a href="/greek/1325.htm" title="1325: dounai (V-ANA) -- To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give.">to grant.</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: all’ (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">These seats belong</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: hois (RelPro-DMP) -- Who, which, what, that. ">to those for whom</a> <a href="/greek/5259.htm" title="5259: hypo (Prep) -- A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when)."></a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: mou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">My</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3962.htm" title="3962: Patros (N-GMS) -- Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a father.">Father</a> <a href="/greek/2090.htm" title="2090: hētoimastai (V-RIM/P-3S) -- To make ready, prepare. From hetoimos; to prepare.">has prepared them.” </a> 24When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/mark/10-39.htm">Mark 10:39-40</a> “We can,” the brothers answered. “You will drink the cup that I drink,” Jesus said, “and you will be baptized with the baptism that I undergo. / But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whom they have been prepared.” <a href="/matthew/19-28.htm">Matthew 19:28</a> Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, in the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on His glorious throne, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. <a href="/matthew/25-34.htm">Matthew 25:34</a> Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. <a href="/romans/8-17.htm">Romans 8:17</a> And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him. <a href="/1_corinthians/2-9.htm">1 Corinthians 2:9</a> Rather, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.” <a href="/revelation/3-21.htm">Revelation 3:21</a> To the one who overcomes, I will grant the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. <a href="/john/17-24.htm">John 17:24</a> Father, I want those You have given Me to be with Me where I am, that they may see the glory You gave Me because You loved Me before the foundation of the world. <a href="/acts/12-2.htm">Acts 12:2</a> He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. <a href="/2_timothy/2-12.htm">2 Timothy 2:12</a> if we endure, we will also reign with Him; if we deny Him, He will also deny us; <a href="/revelation/1-9.htm">Revelation 1:9</a> I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance that are in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and my testimony about Jesus. <a href="/psalms/75-7.htm">Psalm 75:7</a> but it is God who judges; He brings down one and exalts another. <a href="/isaiah/53-12.htm">Isaiah 53:12</a> Therefore I will allot Him a portion with the great, and He will divide the spoils with the strong, because He has poured out His life unto death, and He was numbered with the transgressors. Yet He bore the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors. <a href="/daniel/7-27.htm">Daniel 7:27</a> Then the sovereignty, dominion, and greatness of the kingdoms under all of heaven will be given to the people, the saints of the Most High. His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will serve and obey Him.’ <a href="/jeremiah/45-5.htm">Jeremiah 45:5</a> But as for you, do you seek great things for yourself? Stop seeking! For I will bring disaster on every living creature, declares the LORD, but wherever you go, I will grant your life as a spoil of war.” <a href="/psalms/110-1.htm">Psalm 110:1</a> A Psalm of David. The LORD said to my Lord: “Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And he said to them, You shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not my to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.Ye.<a href="/acts/12-2.htm">Acts 12:2</a> And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.<a href="/romans/8-17.htm">Romans 8:17</a> And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.<a href="/2_corinthians/1-7.htm">2 Corinthians 1:7</a> And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.to sit.for.<a href="/matthew/25-34.htm">Matthew 25:34</a> Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:<a href="/mark/10-40.htm">Mark 10:40</a> But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared.<a href="/1_corinthians/2-9.htm">1 Corinthians 2:9</a> But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/matthew/20-22.htm">Able</a> <a href="/ezekiel/48-29.htm">Allot</a> <a href="/matthew/20-22.htm">Baptism</a> <a href="/matthew/20-22.htm">Baptized</a> <a href="/zechariah/9-7.htm">Belong</a> <a href="/matthew/20-15.htm">Belongs</a> <a href="/matthew/20-22.htm">Cup</a> <a href="/matthew/20-22.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/matthew/20-21.htm">Grant</a> <a href="/matthew/20-21.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/matthew/17-11.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/matthew/13-20.htm">Places</a> <a href="/zechariah/5-11.htm">Prepared</a> <a href="/matthew/20-21.htm">Right</a> <a href="/matthew/19-28.htm">Seat</a> <a href="/matthew/20-21.htm">Seated</a> <a href="/matthew/20-21.htm">Sit</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/matthew/20-34.htm">Able</a> <a href="/joshua/13-6.htm">Allot</a> <a href="/matthew/21-25.htm">Baptism</a> <a href="/mark/1-4.htm">Baptized</a> <a href="/mark/9-41.htm">Belong</a> <a href="/matthew/25-25.htm">Belongs</a> <a href="/matthew/23-25.htm">Cup</a> <a href="/matthew/23-24.htm">Drink</a> <a href="/mark/6-22.htm">Grant</a> <a href="/matthew/22-13.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/matthew/22-8.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/matthew/23-6.htm">Places</a> <a href="/matthew/21-16.htm">Prepared</a> <a href="/matthew/21-3.htm">Right</a> <a href="/matthew/21-7.htm">Seat</a> <a href="/matthew/20-30.htm">Seated</a> <a href="/matthew/22-44.htm">Sit</a><div class="vheading2">Matthew 20</div>1. <a href="/matthew/20-1.htm">Jesus, by the parable of the laborers in the vineyard, shows that God is debtor unto no man;</a> 17. <a href="/matthew/20-17.htm">foretells his passion;</a> 20. <a href="/matthew/20-20.htm">by answering the mother of Zebedee's children, teaches his disciples to be humble;</a> 29. <a href="/matthew/20-29.htm">and gives two blind men their sight.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/20.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/matthew/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/matthew/20.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>You will indeed drink My cup, This phrase indicates that the disciples, specifically James and John, will share in the sufferings of Christ. The "cup" is a metaphor for the experiences, often of suffering or judgment, that one is destined to undergo. In the Old Testament, the cup is frequently associated with God's wrath (<a href="/isaiah/51-17.htm">Isaiah 51:17</a>, <a href="/jeremiah/25-15.htm">Jeremiah 25:15</a>). In the New Testament, Jesus refers to His impending suffering and crucifixion as a cup He must drink (<a href="/matthew/26-39.htm">Matthew 26:39</a>). Historically, James was martyred (<a href="/acts/12-2.htm">Acts 12:2</a>), and John faced persecution and exile (<a href="/revelation/1-9.htm">Revelation 1:9</a>), fulfilling this prophecy of shared suffering.Jesus said. This emphasizes the authority of Jesus in making this statement. In the context of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is portrayed as the authoritative teacher and Messiah. His words carry weight and are often used to reveal deeper spiritual truths. The use of direct speech here highlights the personal nature of His response to the disciples' request.But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. This statement underscores the divine order and the roles within the Trinity. While Jesus is fully God, He submits to the Father's will, reflecting the functional subordination within the Godhead. The right and left seats are positions of honor and authority, often associated with a king's closest advisors. In biblical culture, these positions were not given lightly and were often reserved for those with special favor or purpose.These seats belong to those for whom My Father has prepared them. This phrase indicates God's sovereign will and predestination. It reflects the biblical theme that God has a predetermined plan and purpose for each individual (<a href="/ephesians/1-11.htm">Ephesians 1:11</a>). The preparation by the Father suggests a divine election and purpose, aligning with the broader biblical narrative of God's chosen people and His ultimate plan for redemption. This also connects to the idea of rewards in heaven, where positions of honor are determined by God's criteria, not human ambition.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> The central figure in this passage, Jesus is responding to a request made by the mother of James and John, two of His disciples. He emphasizes His submission to the Father's will. 2. <a href="/topical/j/james_and_john.htm">James and John</a> Also known as the sons of Zebedee, they are two of Jesus' closest disciples. Their mother had asked Jesus for special positions for them in His kingdom. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_cup.htm">The Cup</a> Symbolic of suffering and sacrifice, the "cup" refers to the trials and tribulations that Jesus would face, and by extension, what His followers would also endure. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_father.htm">The Father</a> God the Father, who has the ultimate authority to assign positions in the kingdom of heaven. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_kingdom_of_heaven.htm">The Kingdom of Heaven</a> The spiritual realm over which God reigns, and the ultimate destination for believers.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/u/understanding_the_cup.htm">Understanding the Cup</a> The "cup" represents the trials and sacrifices inherent in following Christ. Believers should be prepared to face challenges for their faith. <a href="/topical/s/submission_to_god's_will.htm">Submission to God's Will</a> Jesus exemplifies submission to the Father's will. Believers are called to trust in God's plan and timing, even when it involves suffering. <a href="/topical/d/divine_sovereignty.htm">Divine Sovereignty</a> Positions in God's kingdom are determined by the Father. This teaches us about God's sovereignty and the importance of humility and service over seeking status. <a href="/topical/s/servanthood_over_status.htm">Servanthood Over Status</a> The request for positions of honor is met with a lesson on servanthood. True greatness in God's kingdom is measured by one's willingness to serve others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_matthew_20.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Matthew 20</a> <a href="/q/why_can't_jesus_choose_who_sits_by_him.htm">Matthew 20:23 – If Jesus is fully divine, why does He imply He has no authority over who sits at His right and left? </a> <a href="/q/how_is_'call_no_man_father'_reconciled.htm">(Matthew 23:9) How is 'call no man father' reconciled with traditions that use fatherly titles for clergy?</a> <a href="/q/evidence_for_'seat_of_moses'.htm">(Matthew 23:2) Is there historical or archaeological evidence for the 'seat of Moses' mentioned here?</a> <a href="/q/joseph's_father__matthew_vs._luke.htm">Who was Joseph's father? (Matthew 1:16 vs. Luke 3:23)</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/matthew/20.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(23) Is not mine to give.--The words in italics are, of course, not in the Greek, and they spoil the true construction of the sentence. Our Lord does not say that it does not belong to Him to give what the disciples asked, but that He could only give it according to His Father's will and the laws which He had fixed. Considered as a prediction, there was a singular contrast in the forms of its fulfilment in the future of the two brothers. James was the first of the whole company of the Twelve to pass through the baptism of blood (<a href="/acts/12-2.htm" title="And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.">Acts 12:2</a>). For John was reserved the weariness and loneliness of an old age surviving all the friendships and companionships of youth and manhood, the exile in Patmos, and the struggle with the great storm of persecution which raged throughout the empire under Nero and Domitian.To them for whom it is prepared of my Father.--He does not say who these are; but the reappearance of the same words in <a href="/matthew/25-34.htm" title="Then shall the King say to them on his right hand, Come, you blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:">Matthew 25:34</a>, throws some light on its meaning here. The kingdom is reserved for those who do Christ-like deeds of love; the highest places in the kingdom must be reserved for those whose love is like His own, alike in its intensity and its width.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/matthew/20.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 23. - Ye shall indeed drink, etc. Jesus accepts their venture of faith, and prophesies its fulfilment. St. James first shared in Christ's baptism of blood, being murdered by Herod (<a href="/acts/12-2.htm">Acts 12:2</a>). He was a martyr in will and deed. St. John did not, indeed, undergo a violent death, but he stood by the cross and felt his Master's sufferings; he lived a long life of persecution, banishment, and distress; he saw all his companions drop off one by one, till in extreme old age he was left solitary, with nothing to comfort him but the memory of vanished years, and the hope of an eternal future. Truly he was a martyr in will, if not in deed. The story that he was cast into a cauldron of boiling oil by Nero's command, and that, coming forth unhurt, he was afterwards banished to Patmos, is one which, except as regards the banishment, has not. been accepted by modern criticism. The event is mentioned by Tertullian ('De Praescript.,' 36.), Jerome ('Adv. Jovin.,' 1:26; and 'Comm. in Matthew' 20:27), and is commemorated in the Church Calendar on May 6, under the title of "S. Joh. ante Port. Lat.;" but it appears to have been a legend that first appeared in Tertullian's work, and was copied from him by other writers without examination. Is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom (ἀλλ οϊς) it is prepared. The Authorized Version inserts δοθήσεται; the Revised," But it is for them for whom it hath been prepared." The Vulgate has, Non est meum dare vobis, sed quibus paratum est a Patre meo. Probably ἀλλὰ here is equivalent to εἰ μὴ, as in <a href="/matthew/17-8.htm">Matthew 17:8</a> and <a href="/mark/9-8.htm">Mark 9:8</a>, and means "except," "unless." The Lord does not mean that he was not able to give it, if so he thought fit, or that the boon was solely at his Father's bestowal, not his (which he might have said, speaking in his human nature). What he affirms is this: The prize is awarded, not by favour or on any earthly considerations, but by absolute justice, and only to those who prove themselves worthy to receive it. Christ assigns to the Father the revelation of mysteries and the election to eternal life (see <a href="/matthew/11-26.htm">Matthew 11:26</a>; <a href="/matthew/16-17.htm">Matthew 16:17</a>). It is prepared; it hath been prepared (<a href="/matthew/25-34.htm">Matthew 25:34</a>), according to certain impartial laws ordained by God, who is no respecter of persons. "The throne," says St. Bernard, "is the price of toils, not a grace granted to ambition; a reward of righteousness, not the concession of a request." <a href="/commentaries/matthew/20-23.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>“You will indeed drink πίεσθε (piesthe) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4095.htm">Strong's 4095: </a> To drink, imbibe. A prolonged form of pio, which poo occurs only as an alternate in certain tenses; to imbibe. My μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. cup,” ποτήριόν (potērion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4221.htm">Strong's 4221: </a> A drinking cup, the contents of the cup; fig: the portion which God allots. [Jesus] said. Λέγει (Legei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. “But δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. to sit καθίσαι (kathisai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_2523.htm">Strong's 2523: </a> Another form for kathezomai; to seat down, i.e. Set; intransitively, to sit; figuratively, to settle. at ἐκ (ek) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1537.htm">Strong's 1537: </a> From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out. My μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. right δεξιῶν (dexiōn) Adjective - Genitive Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1188.htm">Strong's 1188: </a> On the right hand, right hand, right. From dechomai; the right side or hand. [or] καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. left εὐωνύμων (euōnymōn) Adjective - Genitive Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2176.htm">Strong's 2176: </a> From eu and onoma; properly, well-named, i.e. The left; neuter as adverbial, at the left hand. is ἔστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. Mine ἐμὸν (emon) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative Neuter 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1699.htm">Strong's 1699: </a> My, mine. From the oblique cases of ego; my. to grant. δοῦναι (dounai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1325.htm">Strong's 1325: </a> To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give. [These seats belong] ἀλλ’ (all’) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. to those for whom οἷς (hois) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3739.htm">Strong's 3739: </a> Who, which, what, that. My μου (mou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. Father Πατρός (Patros) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3962.htm">Strong's 3962: </a> Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a 'father'. has prepared them.” ἡτοίμασται (hētoimastai) Verb - Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2090.htm">Strong's 2090: </a> To make ready, prepare. From hetoimos; to prepare. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/matthew/20-23.htm">Matthew 20:23 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/matthew/20-23.htm">NT Gospels: Matthew 20:23 He said to them You will indeed (Matt. Mat Mt) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/matthew/20-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Matthew 20:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Matthew 20:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/matthew/20-24.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Matthew 20:24"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Matthew 20:24" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>