Matthew 23:7

Matthew 23:7, in plain English

They love being greeted with respect in public places and being called 'Rabbi' — a title of great honor. They crave the recognition and respect of others.

Why it's here

These leaders had built their whole identity around being seen as important. Their sense of worth came from human praise, not from God.

Who's speaking

Jesus finishes describing the leaders' love of status symbols and public admiration.

Where it sits in the story

We all know people who need to be the center of attention. Jesus is saying the same impulse was driving these religious leaders, and it corrupted everything they did.

The scholarly reading

The Pharisees relish public greetings (aspasmous) in marketplaces and the honorific title 'Rabbi' (rhabi, meaning 'my great one' or 'my teacher'). These greetings were elaborate and deferential, publicly acknowledging the recipient's superior status.

Language and setting

The title 'Rabbi' was becoming formalized during this period as a designation for authorized Torah teachers. The Pharisees' desire for this title reveals their craving for human honor.

Voice

Jesus concludes His list of the Pharisees' status-seeking behaviors, emphasizing their love of public titles and recognition.

Significance

Jesus describes leaders who light up when people bow to them in public and call them by their lofty titles. Their identity is wrapped up in human admiration.

5All their deeds are done for men to see. They broaden their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels.

6They love the places of honor at banquets, the chief seats in the synagogues,

7the greetings in the marketplaces, and the title of ‘Rabbi’ by which they are addressed.

8But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.

9And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.

Read all of Matthew 23 — Seven devastating woes crash down on the religious establishment. Jesus doesn't whisper his critique — he thunders it.