Greetings represented status in society. The scribes and Pharisees apparently enjoyed effusive greetings (Matthew 23:7). Typically, you would greet those who were above you, or on the same level as you, when it came to status, not those below you. You greet those from whom you hope to get something. 1 Kingdom citizens, however, must be different. They must greet all people; they must make it their aim to do good to everyone they meet and know. 2 Jesus thus shows how our concern for other people should show itself also in our greetings (which are evidence of a general attitude). Do we seek the best interests of others or not? 3
47 Et si vous saluez seulement vos frères, que faites-vous d'extraordinaire? Les païens n'agissent-ils pas de même?