Definition: And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 22:25. It's a really important and somewhat unsettling passage in the Bible. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means: Jesus is telling his disciples – specifically Peter and James – that some people in the wider world (the "Gentiles") are holding positions of power and authority over others. They’re essentially saying that these people are benefactors – meaning they're helping or providing for others. Let’s unpack it further: “And he said unto them…” : This is Jesus speaking to his disciples, making it clear this isn’t just a casual observation. It’s a serious statement about something significant happening. “…The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them…” : “Kings” in this context refers to rulers and leaders from outside of Israel – people from other nations. “Lordship” means they have authority and control. So, these individuals are essentially ruling over others. “and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors.” : This is the key part. Jesus is calling these people "benefactors." It suggests they're providing assistance, support, or care to others. What’s the significance? This verse raises a lot of questions and has been interpreted in different ways throughout history. Here are some possible understandings: Historical Context: For centuries, this phrase was used to describe Roman officials who were given significant power over Jewish communities. It implies a system where these rulers held a position of influence and control over the lives of ordinary people. Jesus’s Perspective: Some believe Jesus is highlighting the hypocrisy and injustice of those in positions of authority – those who are benefiting from the suffering or marginalization of others. He's pointing out that even those in positions of power shouldn’t be using their influence to benefit others unfairly. A Warning: It could also be seen as a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of ethical leadership. Important Note: The exact meaning of this verse has been debated for centuries, and there's no single, universally agreed-upon interpretation. It’s a complex passage that speaks to themes of justice, power, and responsibility. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Bible verse? Discuss the historical context in more detail? Explore different interpretations of this passage?