Matthew 23:7

And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.

And {G2532} greetings {G783} in {G1722} the markets {G58}, and {G2532} to be called {G2564} of {G5259} men {G444}, Rabbi {G4461}, Rabbi {G4461}.

and they love being greeted deferentially in the marketplaces and being called `Rabbi.'

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

and the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called of men, Rabbi.

Commentary on Matthew 23:7 (KJV)

Matthew 23:7 is part of Jesus' strong and direct condemnation of the scribes and Pharisees, highlighting their hypocrisy and self-serving motives. In this verse, Jesus specifically points out their desire for public adulation and the honorific titles that come with their religious positions.

Context

This verse is situated within a broader discourse in Matthew 23, where Jesus exposes the true character of the religious leaders of His day. He contrasts their outward show of piety with their inward corruption and desire for preeminence. Just prior to this, Jesus notes their love for "the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts" (Matthew 23:6). Verse 7 extends this critique to their craving for public recognition in everyday settings.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Markets" (Greek: agora): The "markets" were not just places of commerce but also public squares, bustling centers of social life and discourse. It was here, in full view of the community, that the scribes and Pharisees sought to be recognized and honored. Their desire for greetings in such prominent places underscores their focus on public perception rather than genuine piety.
  • "Rabbi, Rabbi" (Greek: ῥαββί, rhabbi): The term 'Rabbi' literally means 'my great one' or 'my master/teacher.' It was a highly respected title for Jewish teachers of the Law, signifying authority, wisdom, and spiritual leadership. Jesus' repetition of the title ("Rabbi, Rabbi") emphasizes the delight the Pharisees took in being addressed with such reverence, highlighting their vanity and hunger for human praise. This concern for titles stands in stark contrast to Jesus' later instruction for His disciples not to be called 'Rabbi' or 'Master,' as they have only one Father and one Teacher (Matthew 23:8-10).

Key Themes

  • Hypocrisy and Public Display: The verse powerfully illustrates the hypocrisy of those who perform religious acts for the sake of human praise rather than for God's glory. Their desire for public greetings and titles reveals a focus on outward appearance over inward righteousness, a recurring theme in Jesus' critique of the Pharisees (e.g., Matthew 6:5).
  • Desire for Human Praise vs. Divine Approval: This passage underscores the inherent danger of seeking validation from people instead of from God. The Pharisees' motivation was rooted in their desire for status and recognition, which ultimately blinded them to true spiritual understanding and humility. Jesus consistently taught that true greatness comes through humility and service, not through titles or public acclaim.
  • Spiritual Pride: The craving for the title "Rabbi" signifies a deep-seated spiritual pride. It exposes a heart that delights in being seen as superior or more knowledgeable, rather than one that genuinely seeks to serve and teach with humility.

Practical Application

Matthew 23:7 serves as a timeless warning for all believers, especially those in leadership roles, against the allure of pride and the desire for human recognition. It challenges us to examine our own motives in service and ministry:

  • Are we seeking to be seen and honored by others, or are we genuinely striving to please God alone?
  • Do we value titles and public praise more than humble service and genuine love for others?
  • The verse encourages us to cultivate a spirit of humility, remembering that true greatness in God's kingdom is found in serving others, not in being served or exalted (as exemplified in Mark 10:45).

Ultimately, this verse calls us to align our hearts with Christ's teaching on humility, focusing on authentic faith and selfless service rather than outward displays of piety or the pursuit of honorific titles.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • John 1:38

    Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?

  • John 1:49

    Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.

  • John 20:16

    Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.

  • John 3:2

    The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.

  • John 3:26

    And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all [men] come to him.

  • John 6:25

    And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither?

  • Matthew 23:8

    But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, [even] Christ; and all ye are brethren.

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