Study Desk

Then^(a) Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples:^(b)

"The scribes and the Pharisees are seated in the chair of Moses. ^[a](c)

Therefore do whatever they tell you, and observe it. But don't do what they do,^[b] because they don't practice what they teach.^(d)

They tie up heavy loads that are hard to carry^[c] and put them on people's shoulders, but they themselves aren't willing to lift a finger^[d] to move them.^(e)

They do everything^[e] to be observed by others: They enlarge their phylacteries ^[f](f) and lengthen their tassels. ^[g](g)

They love the place of honor at banquets, the front seats in the synagogues,^(h)

greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi' by people.

"But as for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi,' because you have one Teacher,^[h] and you are all brothers.⁽ⁱ⁾

Do not call anyone on earth your father, because you have one Father, who is in heaven.^(j)

And do not be called masters either, because you have one Master,^[i] the Messiah.

The greatest among you will be your servant.^(k)

Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. ^(l)