The Pharisees, who loved money,
heard all these things and sneered at him.
And he said to them,
“You justify yourselves in the sight of others,
but God knows your hearts;
for what is of human esteem is an abomination in the sight of God.”
Jesus, like many teachers, most preachers, and all politicians exaggerates to make a point. It's called hyperbole; it serves to emphasize both truth and falsehood -- depending who is speaking and what they're saying.
Human esteem within many human circles is desirable and good. An esteemed teacher or preacher should attract more listeners as the word gets around that this person serves the truth.
That being said, everyone should hear the Lord's warning, "What is of human esteem is an abomination in the sight of God." It has a refreshing candor about it. The supremacy of God is beyond all human comprehension; and anyone who thinks they are really something in anyone's eyes -- be they children, spouse, parents, or sibling, friends or acquaintances-- should know they are really nothing. (Galatians 6:3)
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.