(42) Exercise lordship. . . . exercise authority.--On the force of the two words, see Note on Matthew 20:25.Verse 42. - In these words our Lord does not find fault with that power or authority, whether civil or ecclesiastical, which is exercised by princes or bishops; for this is necessary in every state, and so is sanctioned by Divine and human law. What he condemns is the arbitrary and tyrannical exercise of such power, which the princes of the Gentiles were accustomed to. 10:32-45 Christ's going on with his undertaking for the salvation of mankind, was, is, and will be, the wonder of all his disciples. Worldly honour is a glittering thing, with which the eyes of Christ's own disciples have many times been dazzled. Our care must be, that we may have wisdom and grace to know how to suffer with him; and we may trust him to provide what the degrees of our glory shall be. Christ shows them that dominion was generally abused in the world. If Jesus would gratify all our desires, it would soon appear that we desire fame or authority, and are unwilling to taste of his cup, or to have his baptism; and should often be ruined by having our prayers answered. But he loves us, and will only give his people what is good for them.But Jesus called them to him,.... Who were at some little distance from him, though so nigh, that he could discern the heat and passion they were in, and knowing that they had the same ambitious views with the two brethren: and saith unto them, to check their pride and vanity and reprove them for their ambitious desires of superiority and pre-eminence over, one another; by showing them that this was a part which the Heathens that knew not God acted and therefore was very unbecoming them: you know that they which are accounted, or "seem to" or rather "do", rule over the Gentiles; or are reckoned worthy of government who are, men of honour, reputation, and esteem; who are either by birth or merit thought to be deserving of high places: these exercise lordship over them; rule over them in a lordly tyrannical and arbitrary way: and their great ones; their nobles and lords under them exercise authority over them; the Gentiles; by a delegated power from those who have the supreme rule; See Gill on Matthew 20:25. |
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