Mark 12:39

And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts:

And {G2532} the chief seats {G4410} in {G1722} the synagogues {G4864}, and {G2532} the uppermost rooms {G4411} at {G1722} feasts {G1173}:

who like to have the best seats in the synagogues and take the places of honor at banquets,

and to have the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.

and chief seats in the synagogues, and chief places at feasts:

Commentary

Mark 12:39 KJV is part of Jesus' pointed critique of the scribes, the religious teachers and legal experts of His day. This verse highlights their superficial piety and deep-seated desire for public acclaim and status, a stark contrast to the genuine humility and service that God values.

Context

This verse immediately follows Jesus' warning to beware of the scribes who "love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in the marketplaces." The preceding section in Mark 12 covers a series of challenges to Jesus' authority, including questions about taxes, the resurrection, and the greatest commandment. Jesus' discourse against the scribes, which culminates in their condemnation for devouring widows' houses (Mark 12:40), serves as a powerful indictment of religious hypocrisy. It sets the stage for His teachings on true discipleship and the coming judgment.

Key Themes

  • Hypocrisy: The scribes' desire for prominent positions exposed a disconnect between their outward religious observance and their inward motives. They sought honor from men rather than from God.
  • Pride and Status Seeking: The phrase "chief seats in the synagogues" (πρωτοκαθεδρίας - protokathedrias) and "uppermost rooms at feasts" (πρωτοκλισίας - protoklisias) refers to the most esteemed places, symbolizing their craving for social and religious preeminence. This ambition directly contradicted the principle of humility Jesus taught elsewhere (see Luke 14:7-11).
  • Warning Against Externalism: Jesus consistently challenged those who prioritized outward show and public recognition over genuine spiritual devotion and service to others. This theme is echoed in other gospels, such as Matthew 23:6-7 and Luke 20:46.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek terms protokathedrias and protoklisias both carry the connotation of "first place" or "place of honor." They vividly describe the scribes' ambition to be seen and acknowledged as superior, not for their service or wisdom, but for their position. This desire for public display of status is a key part of Jesus' indictment of their spiritual blindness.

Practical Application

Mark 12:39 serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of pride and seeking personal glory, especially within religious contexts. It challenges believers today to examine their own motives: are we serving God and others out of genuine love and humility, or are we seeking recognition, status, or influence? True spiritual leadership, as exemplified by Christ, is characterized by service and self-sacrifice, not by a desire for the "chief seats." As Jesus taught, whoever desires to be great among you must be your servant.

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Cross-References

  • James 2:2 (3 votes)

    For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;

  • James 2:3 (3 votes)

    And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: