just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom in place of many.”
This saying reveals the full meaning of Jesus’ ministry and salvation. He shows that His words about humility and service are not merely a moral teaching, but a personal example. With the words, “The Son of Man did not come to be served,” Jesus shatters the idea of worldly power, where greatness means receiving service from others. The Savior did not come to be served, but to serve Himself—with love, humility, and self-sacrifice. The next thought, namely, “and to give His life as a ransom in place of many,” reveals the deepest purpose of His mission. The word “ransom” (Greek: λύτρον (lytron)) means a payment that sets free a captive or a condemned person. Jesus offered up His life as a ransom to set us free from the dominion of sin and death. That is, He served to the very end, giving not merely time or effort, but His very self. Thus, Jesus’ word shows the divine paradox of service: He who had the most glorious authority became a servant for all. His glory was revealed not in ruling, but in being sacrificed. This is the measure of true leadership: to serve and to love even to self-sacrifice.