1 Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to his disciples, 2 saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees sat on Moses’ seat. 3 All things therefore whatever they tell you to observe, observe and do, but don’t do their works; for they say, and don’t do. 4 For they bind heavy burdens that are grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not lift a finger to help them. 5 But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad, enlarge the fringes of their garments, 6 and love the place of honor at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, 7 the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ by men. 8 But don’t you be called ‘Rabbi,’ for one is your teacher, the Christ, and all of you are brothers. 9 Call no man on the earth your father, for one is your Father, he who is in heaven. 10 Neither be called masters, for one is your master, the Christ. 11 But he who is greatest among you will be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Matthew 23:1-12 - World English Bible

In the last two chapters of Matthew, Jesus and his critics exchanged barbs in a series of controversies (21:23-44 with the chief priests, 22:15-22 with the Pharisees and Herodians, 22:23-33 with the Sadducees, 22:41-46 with the Pharisees). Now, Jesus warned his audience about his critics, specifically the Pharisees and the scribes. Since Matthew wrote to a Jewish Christian audience, he quoted Jesus addressing them. Yes, these experts ruled on matters of the Law and their rulings bound Matthew's audience, but their spirituality did not. The Lord cautioned his followers against following the example of the Pharisees and scribes for two reasons. First, their judgments advanced their vision of correct behavior, but did not allow for compassion. Rigidity trumped mercy. Second, Jesus questioned their motives as being self-serving. While the people did need to an example to follow, some Pharisees and scribes used their position to enhance their reputation and social standing. They enjoyed the perks of leadership too much. Jesus warned against the importance of titles, for example, and used extreme language to make his point. People even in the early Church addressed their leaders as teacher (“rabbi”), father (a title of honor for an elder, whether biological or social) and “sir” (“master” in the text, but it functioned simply as a title of respect). Jesus employed such absurd descriptions, not to to away with the titles, but to put them into context. Leadership roles were relative; those guiding the community aways needed to remember that they were responsible to a higher source; they reported to Christ himself. Humility, not rigidity or pride, was to be the hallmark of Christian spirituality.

Are you a leader within your parish? Do you pray for humility?