Whoever Humbles Himself

Matthew 23:1-12

Key verse 23:12

“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Read verses 1-4.  Why did the people have to obey the teachers of the law and Pharisees?  But why should they not do what they do?  In what way did they not practice what they preach?  

Read verses 5-7.  Why did the teachers of the law and Pharisees do everything they did?  What kinds of things did they do?  What is the problem with doing everything for men to see?

Read verses 8-12.  Why did Jesus tell his disciples and the crowds not to be called, or to call others Rabbi, father or teacher?  How might having a title cause someone to become proud?  What are some ways we might try to exalt ourselves?  How can we humble ourselves?  What will God do for the person that humbles themselves?