What is the meaning of Luke 20:46? Beware of the scribes “Beware of the scribes.” (Luke 20:46a) • Jesus issues a straight-forward command to stay alert. In Matthew 23:1-3 He tells the crowds to do what the scribes teach when they sit in Moses’ seat, but not to imitate their deeds. The warning is therefore about character, not merely information. • Scribes were entrusted with copying, interpreting, and teaching Scripture. That sacred trust made their hypocrisy especially dangerous (Luke 11:52). • For today’s believer, the counsel is still literal: measure every teacher—including ourselves—by the Word (Acts 17:11) and beware when pride replaces humble obedience. They like to walk around in long robes “They like to walk around in long robes…” (Luke 20:46b) • Long, flowing garments signaled leisure and status. The scribes enjoyed being noticed for holiness they only displayed outwardly. • Matthew 23:5 adds, “They make their phylacteries broad and lengthen the tassels.” External show trumped internal surrender. • God repeatedly cautions that He looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Discipleship still demands substance over style (1 Peter 3:3-4). • Practical takeaway: dress and appearance can glorify God, but when they become a stage for ego, they betray the gospel. They love the greetings in the marketplaces “…and they love the greetings in the marketplaces…” (Luke 20:46c) • Public praise stroked their pride. Being called “Rabbi” or “Master” (Matthew 23:7) provided the applause they craved. • John 5:44 exposes the root: “How can you believe, when you accept glory from one another?” Craving human affirmation suffocates genuine faith. • Signs we may be slipping into the same trap: – Feeling slighted when unnoticed for spiritual service – Measuring worth by followers, likes, or titles – Letting public perception drive private devotion • Remedy: seek the hidden approval of the Father (Matthew 6:1-4). the chief seats in the synagogues “…the chief seats in the synagogues…” (Luke 20:46d) • Synagogue seating placed honored guests up front, facing the congregation. Scribes competed for those spots (Luke 11:43). • James 2:2-4 warns churches not to favor people based on status or appearance. Partiality insults God’s impartial grace. • Spiritual leadership is service, not status (Mark 10:42-45). When a believer longs for visibility more than usefulness, pride has hijacked calling. • Healthy leadership: taking the lowest place to elevate others (Philippians 2:3-4). and the places of honor at banquets “…and the places of honor at banquets.” (Luke 20:46e) • Social meals ranked guests by importance. Scribes angled for the top cushions, ignoring the humility Jesus commends in Luke 14:7-11. • Proverbs 25:6-7 counsels against self-exaltation; true honor comes from God’s promotion, not self-assertion. • Quick heart check: – Do I volunteer for hidden tasks or only visible ones? – Can I celebrate others’ advancement without envy? – Is my joy anchored in Christ’s approval alone? • 1 Peter 5:5 sums it up: “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because ‘God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’” summary Luke 20:46 is a loving, serious caution from the Lord. He calls His followers to discernment, exposing four telltale signs of religious pretension: showy appearance, a hunger for public praise, a craving for prestigious positions, and a love of social prominence. Jesus contrasts such self-promotion with the quiet humility He modeled. Scripture’s consistent witness—Matthew 23, Luke 11, James 2, 1 Peter 5—echoes the theme: God honors the lowly and resists the proud. By heeding Christ’s warning, believers guard their hearts, keep leaders accountable, and live out a faith that seeks God’s glory above all else. |
    |