Matthew 23:7
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Matthew 23:7
7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Chapter Context
Matthew 23 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, salvation, worship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-39: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 23:7
7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Analysis
And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. This verse continues Jesus' denunciation of scribal and Pharisaical hypocrisy, exposing their craving for public recognition and honor. The "greetings in the markets" (aspasamous en tais agorais, ἀσπασμοὺς ἐν ταῖς ἀγοραῖς) refers to elaborate, honorific salutations in public spaces where maximum visibility could be achieved. Markets were the ancient equivalent of public squares—centers of commercial and social interaction.
The title "Rabbi" (rabbi, ῥαββί) literally means "my great one" or "my master," a term of respect for teachers of the Law. The repetition "Rabbi, Rabbi" emphasizes their insatiable appetite for recognition and their manipulation of religion to gain social status. This wasn't about legitimate respect for teaching office but about pride and self-exaltation masquerading as piety.
Jesus' critique targets the heart attitude beneath outward religious performance. The scribes and Pharisees had transformed God's law from a means of knowing and serving Him into a platform for self-promotion. Their religion was performative rather than transformative, focused on human applause rather than divine approval. This warning remains relevant wherever religious leaders use ministry as a vehicle for personal glory rather than service.
Historical Context
In first-century Judaism, rabbis held positions of significant social authority and respect. The title "Rabbi" emerged during the Second Temple period as formal rabbinical schools developed. Scribes were professional students and teachers of the Torah, while Pharisees were a religious movement emphasizing strict Torah observance and oral tradition.
Public marketplaces in ancient cities served as social hubs where people gathered not just for commerce but for news, discussion, and social interaction. Being greeted respectfully in such public settings signaled social status and influence. The scribes and Pharisees' elaborate religious garments (verse 5) and their preference for prominent synagogue seats (verse 6) formed a pattern of status-seeking behavior.
Jesus delivered this scathing critique publicly in the temple courts, shortly before His crucifixion. His confrontation with religious leaders had been escalating throughout His ministry, but Matthew 23 represents His most comprehensive and severe denunciation. The historical irony is profound: those who claimed to represent God rejected the very Messiah they claimed to await, their spiritual pride blinding them to truth.
Reflection
- In what ways do modern religious leaders seek public recognition and status rather than serving humbly?
- How can we guard against using spiritual service as a platform for personal glory?
- What is the difference between appropriate recognition of leadership and the pride Jesus condemns here?
- How does our culture's emphasis on platform and influence tempt us toward the Pharisees' error?
- What practical steps can we take to ensure our ministry is God-centered rather than self-centered?