But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest.
Here, I. Christ foretels his own approaching sufferings. He passed through Galilee with more expedition than usual, and would not that any man should know of it (Mar 9:30); because he had done many mighty and good works among them in vain, they shall not be invited to see them and have the benefit of them, as they have been.
Commenting on Mark 9:30-40
But they held their peace,.... Fearing a reprimand, for their vanity and affectation of worldly grandeur: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest; that is, who should be advanced to the highest post, and have the greatest place of authority, honour, and dignity, in the temporal kingdom of the Messiah, they expected would be in a little time...
Who should be the greatest - See on Mat 18:1-5 (note).