The fact that Jesus now “sat down” and called the twelve to him is, according to many, an indication of a seam in the story. There is no reason, however, not to think here of a normal sequence of incidents. On the way there were more people around Jesus than the twelve. At home also he is surrounded by a greater number of disciples. The house is large, it has rooms and an inner court (2:1): here Jesus has moved with his disciples, speaking and questioning. Then comes the question about the greatest in the kingdom of heaven and Jesus’ inquiry about the discussion on the way. Now the moment comes for the Master to correct his disciples, in view of the continuation of the voyage. He emphasizes the importance of what follows in that, rather than remaining among his followers, he looks for a seat (sign of instruction that follows) and to ask the twelve to sit down around him.1
35 And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”