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Question 2

The lesson highlights Canons like Nicaea 6 (jurisdictions) and Constantinople 3 (Constantinople as “New Rome”); how does Bercot’s use of Matthew 23:6–12 challenge the legitimacy of honoring certain sees, and what does this reveal about what Jesus considers “greatness” and “authority” in His kingdom?

Another way to ask: How does Bercot use Matthew 23:6–12 to question giving special honor and power to certain church cities (sees)? What does Jesus say real “greatness” and “authority” look like in His kingdom?

Direct Answer Bercot uses Matthew 23 to show that formal rank, titles, and status-seeking—exactly what the patriarchal system institutionalizes—run against Jesus’ command that His followers remain “all brethren” and that “greatness” is measured by humble service. So honoring sees because of prestige (“New Rome”) looks like importing the Pharisees’ and world’s honor system into the church.

Support from Transcript:

He cites Nicaea 6 assigning jurisdictions (Alexandria over Egypt, etc.) and Constantinople 3 giving Constantinople “prerogative of honor after the Bishop of Rome…because Constantinople is New Rome.”
He asks whether setting up patriarchs is “apostolic in origin…or even apostolic in concept,” implying it fails that test.
He reads Matthew 23:6–12: they “love the best places…to be called by men,” but Jesus says, “you are all brethren,” and “he who is greatest…shall be your servant.”
He highlights Jesus’ prohibitions on elevated religious titles: “Do not be called rabbi…Do not call anyone on earth your Father…do not be called teachers.”
He contrasts this with councils granting “positions of prominence and authority” to certain bishops, calling it “contrary to the very model that Jesus had set up.”

Discussion Follow-ups What does it say when a see’s honor is justified by political importance (“New Rome”)? How should churches practice honor without creating rank that tempts pride or control?

Jumpstarter 2 of 10