Luke 22:26Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Moreover, through His own example, He guided them toward humility by showing that He came to serve. At that moment, as it is recorded, He shared the bread and the cup with them. If I, whom all celestial and rational beings honor, serve among you, how is it that you dare to elevate yourselves and contend over status? It appears that He did not casually mention reclining and serving, but instead sought to remind them that sharing the same bread and cup fosters unity and friendship. Why entertain thoughts that are unworthy of this communion? Furthermore, I have not designated certain ones for service while excluding others, but I serve you all equally. Thus, you should also share in this sentiment.

To be elevated in virtue deserves all commendation; however, those who seek to achieve it must possess a humble perspective and embody a spirit of humility so profound that, out of love for their brethren, they relinquish all notions of superiority. This is the ideal Blessed Paul envisions for us when he states: ‘Think of your fellow men, that in honour they are higher than you.’ Such an attitude is truly fitting for the saints, enhancing their glory and rendering our devotion to God more honorable. It dismantles the traps set by the devil's malice, frees us from his numerous snares, protects us from the corruption that ensnares, and ultimately transforms us into the image of Christ, our Savior.

A person, when devoid of authority, displays humility and compassion; however, once they obtain power, they tend to issue commands indiscriminately. Yet, when that power is stripped away, their own directives become burdensome to them. Like the imprudent, they fail to see their own frailty. If we all aspire to lead and govern, who will be willing to submit or follow? If each one seeks personal glory, who will bestow it?

We must strive to ensure that there are no harmful disputes among us regarding rank. The apostles did engage in debates, but this serves as a cautionary tale rather than an example to emulate. When it was mentioned that Peter would eventually be restored, one must remember that Peter promptly followed the Lord (see Matt. 4:19; Mk. 1:16). Who among us can claim to have been converted so swiftly? Let us be cautious against pride and the temptations of this present age! It was Peter who stated, “We have left everything to follow you” (Lk. 18:28), and to him it was commanded to strengthen his brethren.

But the one among you who is greatest should become as the least... Embrace this, for it fosters humility. The term "younger" refers, in this context, to those who are more recent or newer in their roles.

In a Christian community, there is no place for pagan traditions and practices. The individual who possesses the highest skills and talents ought to approach their interactions with others as though they hold the lowest position, while those who are senior in status and authority should act as though they are servants to others. Thus, pride, vanity, and ambition have no foundation in a Christian society.

Abba Pimen expressed, "The Gospel states, 'Whoever has a garment, let him sell it and buy a knife' (cf. Luke 22:36), which means that those who indulge in worldly pleasures must abandon them and embrace the path of righteousness."

The anticipation of the imminent revelation of the kingdom rekindled the fervent aspirations of the disciples, leading to renewed discussions and disputes among them regarding who held the greater status. The Lord gently reminded them of His teachings regarding the distinctions between His kingdom and the kingdoms of this world. To prevent the disciples from sliding into despair, He assured them: "since you have been with Me in My trials, I bequeath to you a kingdom, just as My Father has given Me a kingdom." He connected the notion of the Supper of the “New Passover,” which He had already revealed, with their longing for thrones, reaffirming His promise in the same vein. You shall partake in My meal within My kingdom and will sit on thrones to judge the twelve tribes of Israel.

As reported by Eu, in the Gospel of Luke, the teachings of Jesus Christ on humility (25-27) were given alongside an implicit reply to the disciples' argument regarding who was the greatest among them. Jesus, in sharing His lessons on humility (25-27), indirectly addressed their contention for prominence by assuring them that their unwavering commitment to Him, despite the adversities they faced, would be rewarded with joy in His kingdom, where they would dine at His table. He indicated that they would hold notable positions of honor in that realm, further emphasized by the fact that they would sit in judgment over the twelve tribes of Israel.

After He completed washing the feet of His disciples, Jesus dressed in His outer garment, took His place at the table, and addressed the apostles, asking them, “Do you understand what I have done for you? You call Me Teacher and Lord, and rightly so” (John 13:12). Consequently, if I, your Teacher and Lord, have washed your feet, you are to practice the same humility in all circumstances. A servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sends him; likewise, the one who serves at the table is not superior to the one who reclines there. Yet I, who send you to preach, your Lord who sits here, have washed your feet. Why do you contend about who among you is the greatest? Instead of arguing, you should follow my example and learn from Me.

In response to the disciples' argument regarding their rank, the Lord reiterated some of His previous teachings on the matter, as noted in verses 25-26. However, taking the current situation into account, He provided them with a powerful source of comfort in verses 27-30. The Lord pointed out that in earthly realms, rulers 'exercise authority,' as referenced in Matthew 20:25-27.