And in all seriousness they dreamed of the offices and honours that would be theirs, and actually disputed who among them would hold the highest rank.

Each boasted of his own achievements.

James had brought Him the most friends in Galilee.
Simon rested his claim on the fact that he had been the first to recognise in Him the Son of God.

John reminded them that he came from the same place, and had once worked with Him as carpenter's apprentice.
John might have said that the Master was especially fond of him, but he did not say so.

Simon, on the contrary, put forward most emphatically the fact that the Master had called him the rock on which He should found His community.
When Jesus noticed how they were disputing He went to them and asked what they were discussing so eagerly.
"Master," said James boldly, "you come to us as if we had called you.
We want to know who among your disciples will be first in the Eternal Kingdom.