While all the people were listening, Jesus said to His disciples, “Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”
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Jesus warns of thinking too highly of yourself. Instead of needing the fancy things and the honorable seats, we should be humble and put others before ourselves. Really, what He is saying, is if you act in this way you don’t truly understand or know God. You have knowledge, but no relationship. The love and focus is on self…which will bring severe punishment. Put self aside…humble yourself…exalt the name of the Lord in your life…love God and love others as you do yourself.
A Journey With Jesus 