up = down (matthew 20:17-28)

Here's what I see is the core message of Matthew 20:17-28.
It centers, first, around Jesus and the disciples.

Jesus is a Suffering Servant. (see Isaiah 53)

His journey to Jerusalem would end in suffering and death.
The Cup he would drink was a metaphor for suffering for the pain, evil, and sin of the world.

The disciples needed to learn that following him to Jerusalem or drinking his cup would mean suffering too.
Jesus tells James and John that they would drink the cup (suffer). James became a martyr and John lived his senior years in prison. Peter would be hung upside down for his faith.

But when it came to the disciples desire to be great, Jesus doesn't tell them it's a wrong desire, but shows them how God's kingdom and his way are the true path to greatness.

The disciples would have to become servants if they wanted to become great in God's purposes.

It was first: to teach the disciples about Jesus' mission and method. Suffering Servant to save the world.
It was second: to teach the disciple what to expect as they went to Jerusalem, if they would drink the cup of Christ, and how greatness in their service with Jesus would like.

What does it mean for us?
It also teaches us about Jesus.
It also gives us perspective that following Jesus will not always be easy.
That greatness is available and achievable through a counter-cultural path, servanthood.

Does this mean that we should SEEK SUFFERING as disciples? No.
Should we feel the need to suffer purposely to feel God's favor or affirmation? No (we might as well tie a tight rope to our leg and get our backs whipped daily if that's our goal)
Should we put suffering or death as THE way to be a disciples? No.

Now that the core message is understood (Jesus and disciples), what does it mean for a Christ follower to be a servant in our world?