What are modern examples of "seats of honor" that Christians should avoid? Scripture Focus Luke 20:46: “Beware of the scribes. They like to walk around in long robes, and they love the greetings in the marketplaces, the seats of honor in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets.” Original Setting • Religious leaders sought visible symbols of status to feed pride. • Jesus exposes the heart issue more than the physical seat itself. Why It Still Matters • The instinct to seek recognition is unchanged. • Positions meant for ministry easily become platforms for self-promotion. Modern “Seats of Honor” to Avoid • Social-media acclaim: arranging posts or buying followers to appear important. • Conference platforms: jockeying for keynote spots or panel visibility. • VIP church culture: reserved parking, front-row seating, or green rooms that separate leaders from people. • Title chasing: insisting on being called “Doctor,” “Pastor,” or corporate designations to demand deference. • Corporate perks: corner offices, executive lounges, or first-class travel used to elevate ego, not serve others. • Political photo-ops: attending events mainly for publicity or power alignment. • Academic prestige: publishing or speaking chiefly to build a résumé, not to edify. • Charitable boards: joining high-profile nonprofits for networking rather than genuine compassion. • Luxury lifestyle displays: upscale cars, designer fashion, or exclusive clubs chosen to impress. • Influencer culture within Christian circles: cultivating “celebrity pastor” status, product endorsements, and personal branding. Cautions and Clarifications • Holding a position of honor is not sin; seeking it for self-glory is (Matthew 23:6-12). • Honor offered by others can be accepted with humility (Proverbs 27:2). • Motivation determines morality: fame for Christ is good, fame for self is idolatry. Supporting Scriptures • Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride…” • James 4:6 – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • Romans 12:16 – “Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with the lowly.” • 1 Peter 5:5-6 – “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” Living It Out • Choose the back row, the last parking spot, the unnoticed task. • Promote others publicly; keep your own service quiet (Matthew 6:1-4). • Invite people who cannot repay you to meals and gatherings (Luke 14:12-14). • Regularly audit motives before accepting honors or posting online. • Submit achievements to God’s glory: “Whether you eat or drink…do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). |
    |