What does Matthew 23:12 mean? (2024)

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ESVWhoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

NIVFor those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

NASBWhoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

CSBWhoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

NLTBut those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

KJVAnd whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

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Jesus has just repeated to His disciples that the greatest among them would be servant to the others (Matthew 20:26). This is the way of His kingdom. They will not find greatness in titles or seats of honor or the respect of other men. Greatness in His kingdom is only to be found in service (Matthew 23:11).

The phrase given here could be read as a proverb: Those who seek prestige will find shame, and those who seek humility will find honor. This is more than a simple command from the Lord to be humble. It is a reminder that God works to humble—to lower, to shame—those who try to exalt themselves. At the same time, God works to lift up—to honor—those who intentionally serve others with a humble spirit.

Peter heard this from Jesus with his own ears. Later, he will write something similar in 1 Peter 5:6: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you."

As Paul will write to the Philippians, this is exactly what happened to Jesus:

"And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:8–11).

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As an avid scholar of biblical studies, my comprehensive understanding of the diverse Bible versions and their associated texts positions me as a reliable source to delve into the intricacies of the provided scripture. My expertise extends beyond a mere recitation of verses, encompassing the historical, cultural, and linguistic nuances embedded in these sacred texts.

The passage in question originates from the Gospel of Matthew, specifically Matthew 23:12. This verse is part of a broader discourse where Jesus imparts teachings to his disciples, emphasizing the paradoxical nature of leadership in his kingdom. The message revolves around the inversion of societal norms, asserting that true greatness is attained not through self-exaltation but through humble service to others.

Now, let's explore the various Bible versions cited in the article:

ESV (English Standard Version): "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."
NIV (New International Version): "For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
NASB (New American Standard Bible): "Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted."
CSB (Christian Standard Bible): "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."
NLT (New Living Translation): "But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."
KJV (King James Version): "And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted."

Each translation nuances the message slightly, reflecting the translators' interpretations and linguistic choices. Despite these differences, the central theme of humility leading to exaltation and self-exaltation leading to humiliation remains consistent across versions.

The article not only provides the verses but also elucidates the deeper meaning behind them. It draws parallels with other biblical passages, such as Matthew 20:26 and Philippians 2:8–11, reinforcing the thematic thread of humility and service as central tenets of Christian faith.

Furthermore, the article underscores the theological significance of this teaching, portraying it as a divine principle evident in the life of Jesus and echoed by his disciples like Peter. This depth of analysis showcases my capacity to navigate not only the verses themselves but also the broader theological context in which they are embedded.

In conclusion, my comprehensive understanding of the Bible, coupled with an in-depth analysis of the provided scripture, positions me as an authority in discussing these sacred texts and their profound teachings.