What does Matthew 23:7 mean?

Explanation

The verse [And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.] from Matthew 23:7 is a part of a larger discourse where Jesus Christ criticizes the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy and ostentatious displays of piety.

Jesus is condemning the religious leaders for seeking honor and recognition from others rather than serving with humility.

The term "Rabbi" means "my teacher" in Hebrew, and it was a title of respect akin to "master" given to teachers and scholars of the Torah.

The doubling of the word “Rabbi” signifies an emphasis on the honor they sought.

In the larger text, this verse illustrates Jesus's emphasis on the heart and intent behind actions, suggesting that seeking public admiration can corrupt genuine faith and service.

Historical Context

Matthew 23:7 was written in a first-century Jewish context, where rabbis and teachers of the law were figures of great respect and authority within the community.

They were often sought after for their interpretations of the Torah and were influential in guiding the religious life of the people.

Greetings in the markets refers to public recognition and social status that the religious elite enjoyed.

The address "Rabbi" placed someone in a position of high regard, and it was common for such teachers to desire and relish in this form of respect.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Matthew 23:7 presents an insight into the nature of true discipleship.

From a Christian viewpoint, it emphasizes that seeking personal glory is contrary to the teachings of Jesus. Instead, following Jesus requires humility and a focus on God’s glory rather than one's own.

The verse is also indicative of the broader Biblical theme that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

The verse can also serve as a critique of religious leadership that becomes too enamored with its own importance and loses sight of its true purpose, to serve God and the community.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, Matthew 23:7 can be applied in daily life by encouraging believers to focus on serving others with humility rather than seeking recognition or titles.

In the workplace, school, or church, individuals can strive to serve diligently without the need for external rewards or titles.

This teaching encourages the development of a servant-leadership attitude, valuing the well-being and growth of others over personal gain or status.

Cross-References

• Matthew 6:1: "Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven."
• Matthew 20:26-27: "But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant."
• Luke 14:11: "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the term for "greetings" is ἀσπασμούς (aspasmous), which means salutations or greetings often associated with respect or honor.

The term "Rabbi" is transliterated from the Hebrew word רַבִּי (rabbi), signifying "my great one" or "my master/teacher," showing a role of authority and respect.

The repeated word "Rabbi, Rabbi" (ῥαββί, ῥαββί) in Greek not only emphasizes the respect that the title commands but also the eagerness of those individuals to hear this adulation in full measure from the crowds.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, titles and public acclamations were the currency of honor and social standing.

In the Greco-Roman world, for example, philosophers and orators often enjoyed public recognition.

Likewise, in Jewish culture, teachers of the Torah were given significant respect.

The critique Jesus offers by contrasting such practices with his teaching of humility presents a countercultural viewpoint that rejects the overt pursuit of social standing common in both Roman and Jewish contexts of the time.

Scientific Perspectives

While Matthew 23:7 doesn't directly intersect with scientific understandings, concepts from psychology such as intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation can be relevant.

Studies on human behavior suggest that seeking intrinsic rewards (like personal growth or helping others) rather than extrinsic rewards (such as titles or recognition) can be more fulfilling and lead to long-term happiness.

This indirectly aligns with Jesus’s message that seeking to be called "Rabbi, Rabbi" would be an extrinsic motivator, which his teaching advises against.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians provide various interpretations of Matthew 23:7.

Some emphasize that Jesus's criticism is not directed at the titles themselves but at the hypocrisy and the hearts of the individuals desiring them.

Others point out the overarching theme of servant-leadership in Jesus's ministry.

Prominent Biblical commentator Matthew Henry interprets this passage as a warning against the vanity of longing for public praise.

John Calvin speaks to the danger of leaders allowing the honor given to them to become an occasion for pride.

Many modern commentaries continue to focus on themes of humility and the inner motivations of religious practitioners.