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 (τὸ δὲ καθίσαι ἐκ δεξιῶν μου ἢ ἐξ εὐωνύμων οὐκ ἔστιν ἐμὸν δοῦναι, ἀλλ᾽ οἷς ἡτοίμασται, to de kathisai ek dexiōn mou ē ex euōnymōn ouk estin emon dounai, all' hois hētoimastai). Jesus affirms divine sovereignty in kingdom appointments—positions of honor aren't dispensed through human favoritism, nepotism, or presumption, but according to the Father's eternal purposes.
The phrase "not mine to give" has sparked theological discussion. Does this limit Jesus' authority? Reformed theology understands this as Jesus speaking in His mediatorial office as incarnate Son—kingdom positions aren't arbitrary gifts Jesus dispenses based on personal preference, but divinely determined according to the Father's will. Matthew's parallel (20:23) adds "but for them for whom it is prepared of my Father," clarifying the Father's sovereign role.
The verb ἡτοίμασται (hētoimastai, "has been prepared") uses the perfect tense, indicating completed action with ongoing results—God has already determined kingdom positions according to His eternal counsel. This doesn't eliminate human responsibility but emphasizes that greatness in God's kingdom isn't achieved through self-promotion but through faithful service according to divine calling.
Historical Context
This response would have shocked James and John. In ancient patronage systems, powerful individuals dispensed positions to loyal followers, family members, or highest bidders. Jesus rejects this worldly model entirely—God's kingdom operates on radically different principles. Positions aren't negotiated, earned through political maneuvering, or granted through family connections, but prepared by God for those who faithfully serve. This teaching challenged not only the disciples' personal ambition but the entire cultural framework of honor, status, and social advancement.
Questions for Reflection
How does Jesus' statement that positions are 'prepared' by God rather than earned through ambition reshape your understanding of kingdom service?
What does this teaching reveal about God's sovereignty in spiritual gifts, callings, and responsibilities within the church?
How do you respond when others receive positions, recognition, or opportunities you desired—with envy or trust in God's sovereign purposes?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
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 (τὸ δὲ καθίσαι ἐκ δεξιῶν μου ἢ ἐξ εὐωνύμων οὐκ ἔστιν ἐμὸν δοῦναι, ἀλλ᾽ οἷς ἡτοίμασται, to de kathisai ek dexiōn mou ē ex euōnymōn ouk estin emon dounai, all' hois hētoimastai). Jesus affirms divine sovereignty in kingdom appointments—positions of honor aren't dispensed through human favoritism, nepotism, or presumption, but according to the Father's eternal purposes.
The phrase "not mine to give" has sparked theological discussion. Does this limit Jesus' authority? Reformed theology understands this as Jesus speaking in His mediatorial office as incarnate Son—kingdom positions aren't arbitrary gifts Jesus dispenses based on personal preference, but divinely determined according to the Father's will. Matthew's parallel (20:23) adds "but for them for whom it is prepared of my Father," clarifying the Father's sovereign role.
The verb ἡτοίμασται (hētoimastai, "has been prepared") uses the perfect tense, indicating completed action with ongoing results—God has already determined kingdom positions according to His eternal counsel. This doesn't eliminate human responsibility but emphasizes that greatness in God's kingdom isn't achieved through self-promotion but through faithful service according to divine calling.