Matthew 20:25 - "But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them."

In this verse, Jesus is addressing his disciples after their mother, Salome, had come to him and asked for her two sons, James and John, to have positions of honor and authority in his kingdom (Matthew 20:20-21). Jesus uses this opportunity to teach his disciples an important lesson about leadership and authority.

The verse begins with Jesus calling his disciples to him, indicating that what he is about to say is of great importance. He then contrasts the way that the princes of the Gentiles (referring to the rulers of the other nations) exercise dominion and authority with the way that his disciples should behave.

The phrase "exercise dominion over them" speaks to the way that earthly rulers often use their position of power to control and dictate the lives of others. This can be seen throughout history, where rulers have used their authority to oppress and exploit those under their rule. Jesus is pointing out that this type of leadership is contrary to the principles of his kingdom.

Furthermore, when Jesus says "they that are great exercise authority upon them," he is highlighting the tendency of those in positions of power to use their authority for their own benefit rather than for the good of those they are meant to serve. Instead of using their authority to care for and uplift others, worldly leaders often use it to further their own interests and agendas.

Jesus is teaching his disciples that the way they should lead is different from the ways of the world. This message is consistent with other teachings of Jesus, such as in Mark 10:42-45, where he says, "But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant."

The message of servant leadership and humility is a central theme throughout the teachings of Jesus, and it is reflected in the actions of Jesus himself. In John 13:1-17, Jesus washes the feet of his disciples, demonstrating that true greatness comes from serving others. This act of humility and service stands in stark contrast to the way that earthly rulers exercise dominion and authority over others.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its significance. The disciples had been with Jesus for some time, witnessing his ministry and listening to his teachings. However, they still struggled to understand the nature of Jesus' kingdom and what it meant to be a part of it. Jesus' response to their request for positions of honor is an opportunity for him to clarify what it means to be a leader in his kingdom.

The symbolism in this verse is also rich and meaningful. The contrast between the way earthly rulers exercise authority and the way Jesus calls his disciples to lead is a powerful symbol of the upside-down nature of the kingdom of God. In God's kingdom, greatness is found in humility, and leadership is expressed through service and sacrificial love.

In conclusion, Matthew 20:25 is a significant verse that teaches an important lesson about leadership and authority in the kingdom of God. Jesus calls his disciples to reject the ways of the world and embrace a different kind of leadership, one that is characterized by humility, service, and sacrificial love. This message is as relevant and challenging today as it was when Jesus first spoke these words, calling all who follow him to embody the values of his kingdom in their leadership and interactions with others.