Mark 12:38 - In his teaching he said to them, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk in long robes, and to get greetings in the marketplaces,
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What does "Mark 12:38" mean?
Mark 12:38, "In his teaching he said to them, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk in long robes, and to get greetings in the marketplaces," is a criticism by Jesus of the scribes' motivations and behavior. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Beware of the scribes...": Jesus is warning his followers to be cautious and discerning when it comes to the scribes. The scribes were experts in the law and interpreters of religious texts. They held positions of authority and influence in Jewish society. The word "beware" (Gk. blepete) means to be watchful, to take heed.
"...who like to walk in long robes...": This refers to the scribes' ostentatious display of their status. Long robes were a sign of wealth, prestige, and religious authority. Jesus is suggesting that the scribes' motivation for wearing these robes was not simply out of reverence or tradition but to be noticed and admired. This is an external show of piety designed to impress others rather than reflect true inner devotion.
"...and to get greetings in the marketplaces...": The "marketplaces" (or public squares) were places of public gathering. The scribes enjoyed receiving respectful greetings and salutations in these places. Again, Jesus is highlighting the scribes' desire for public recognition and validation. They enjoyed the honorific titles and deference that their position afforded them.
In essence, Jesus is criticizing the scribes for their hypocrisy and vanity. He's suggesting that their primary motivation is to seek the approval and admiration of others rather than to genuinely serve God or the people.
Key Takeaways:
Focus on outward appearances over inward piety: Jesus contrasts this with true humility and service.
Desire for public approval and recognition: He suggests that their actions were driven by a desire for prestige rather than a genuine love for God and their neighbors.
Hypocrisy: He is implying that their actions are inconsistent with their purported religious beliefs.
Application:
This verse serves as a warning against religious hypocrisy and the dangers of seeking validation from others. It encourages believers to examine their own motivations and ensure that their actions are driven by a genuine desire to serve God rather than to impress people.
Mark 12:38 - In his teaching he said to them, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk in long robes, and to get greetings in the marketplaces,
What does "Mark 12:38" mean?
Mark 12:38, "In his teaching he said to them, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk in long robes, and to get greetings in the marketplaces," is a criticism by Jesus of the scribes' motivations and behavior. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
"Beware of the scribes...": Jesus is warning his followers to be cautious and discerning when it comes to the scribes. The scribes were experts in the law and interpreters of religious texts. They held positions of authority and influence in Jewish society. The word "beware" (Gk. blepete) means to be watchful, to take heed.
"...who like to walk in long robes...": This refers to the scribes' ostentatious display of their status. Long robes were a sign of wealth, prestige, and religious authority. Jesus is suggesting that the scribes' motivation for wearing these robes was not simply out of reverence or tradition but to be noticed and admired. This is an external show of piety designed to impress others rather than reflect true inner devotion.
"...and to get greetings in the marketplaces...": The "marketplaces" (or public squares) were places of public gathering. The scribes enjoyed receiving respectful greetings and salutations in these places. Again, Jesus is highlighting the scribes' desire for public recognition and validation. They enjoyed the honorific titles and deference that their position afforded them.
In essence, Jesus is criticizing the scribes for their hypocrisy and vanity. He's suggesting that their primary motivation is to seek the approval and admiration of others rather than to genuinely serve God or the people.
Key Takeaways:
Focus on outward appearances over inward piety: Jesus contrasts this with true humility and service.
Desire for public approval and recognition: He suggests that their actions were driven by a desire for prestige rather than a genuine love for God and their neighbors.
Hypocrisy: He is implying that their actions are inconsistent with their purported religious beliefs.
Application:
This verse serves as a warning against religious hypocrisy and the dangers of seeking validation from others. It encourages believers to examine their own motivations and ensure that their actions are driven by a genuine desire to serve God rather than to impress people.