But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. – Matthew 23:11-13
This passage contrasts true leadership with religious hypocrisy. Jesus teaches that greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by humble service rather than power or self-exaltation. Those who seek status for themselves are brought low; those who take the lowly way of service are lifted up. The rebuke of the scribes and Pharisees calls out a faith that bars others from God’s life by legalism, empty ritual, or self-righteousness—claiming authority while refusing the humble pathway into the kingdom.
"Only Life Changes" 