Why does Jesus ask, "What can I do for you?"

Why does Jesus ask when He already knows?

I. Why does Jesus ask when He already knows?

Imagine standing before the Lord of the universe, the One who knows your heart better than you do, and hearing Him ask, "What do you want Me to do for you?" On the surface, it’s a question that seems unnecessary—surely Jesus already knows our needs. And yet, throughout the Gospels, He asks it multiple times. Why?

This question is an invitation—not just to receive but to engage. Jesus' words are not about gathering information but about drawing out faith. By looking at the biblical occurrences of this question, we will uncover profound theological truths about faith, the role of Christ, and the nature of our requests before God.

II. Biblical Occurrences of the Question

A. Jesus and the Sons of Zebedee (James and John)

Scripture Reference:

Mark 10:36, Matthew 20:21

The first time we hear Jesus asking this question, it is directed at James and John, who, along with their mother, come to Jesus with an ambitious request: “Grant that one of us may sit …