Day 262, Year 1

Being Complimented, So What?

… “And respectful greetings in the market places, and being called Rabbi by men.” (Matthew 23:7 NASB)

Greetings were a common practice among Israelites during biblical times. Unless there were urgencies, they would usually greet their acquaintances when they met, chat for a while, and then go their separate ways. In the past, the Pharisees, etc., liked to be called Rabbis, which means “my teachers, my lord.” They took pride in this title. However, there are a few problems with it.

First, the danger of replacing God with the belonging community. For believers, the most vital thing is to receive the Lord’s approval and praise. However, as the community of believers grows larger, the status of God’s Word can be minimized. There is a danger for the newcomers: they may replace the approval of God with that of the community’s leaders or the majority. Actually, the Pharisees, etc., were the most suitable and in the best position to encourage others to regard God’s Word as the authority and focus. Yet, they sought the recognition and approval of the community instead. This reversal of priorities corrupts their hearts and minds. In fact, any religious organization centered on the community of believers is bound to go downhill or even toward extinction.

Second, the danger of replacing God’s affirmation or praise with human affirmation or approval. When the true meaning of God’s Word is no longer the central pursuit of the community, their belief deteriorates. The weakness of human nature often leads to the distortion of the true meaning of faith. Concepts or terminology that differ from the religious texts emerge and are sought after, thus replacing the original belief. As a result, faith becomes a subsidiary that serves people, and hypocrites exploit this distorted faith for personal gain. On the contrary, when we, believers, center our focus on the truth and seek to practice it, along with the work that comes from God, the community of believers will grow stronger and influential.

Third, the danger of greeting each other in the market places instead of sharing wisdom. The “market” in Proverbs chapter 1 of the Old Testament used to be a place where wisdom cried out like a human being, calling people to long for God’s wisdom and abandon foolishness. But here, the “market” had become a place for those who sought personal glory. In my opinion, the author, Matthew, warns that the church must not become as corrupt as the Pharisaic community. The church should understand God’s nature, ensuring that the congregation puts His Word and wisdom as the center and focus of everyone’s pursuit. Otherwise, the community of believers will soon or later be corrupted and head toward destruction.

Reflection questions:

1) Are you in danger of seeking approval from social or religious groups in place of God’s approval and affirmation? If so, how would you rely on the Lord to resolve this danger?

2) In gatherings with believers, do you long for God’s Word and wisdom more than anything else? Why?