1. THEN JESUS said to the multitudes and to His disciples,
2. The scribes and Pharisees sit on Moses' seat [of authority].
3. So observe and practice all they tell you; but do not do what they do, for they preach, but do not practice.
4. They tie up heavy loads, hard to bear, and place them on men's shoulders, but they themselves will not lift a finger to help bear them.
5. They do all their works to be seen of men; for they make wide their phylacteries (small cases enclosing certain Scripture passages, worn during prayer on the left arm and forehead) and make long their fringes [worn by all male Israelites, according to the command]. [Exod. 13:9; Num. 15:38; Deut. 6:8.]
6. And they take pleasure in and [thus] love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues,
7. And to be greeted with honor in the marketplaces and to have people call them rabbi.
8. But you are not to be called rabbi (teacher), for you have one Teacher and you are all brothers.
9. And do not call anyone [in the church] on earth father, for you have one Father, Who is in heaven.
10. And you must not be called masters (leaders), for you have one Master (Leader), the Christ.
11. He who is greatest among you shall be your servant.
12. Whoever exalts himself [with haughtiness and empty pride] shall be humbled (brought low), and whoever humbles himself [whoever has a modest opinion of himself and behaves accordingly] shall be raised to honor.