Note 5 at Mt 23:12: It needs to be pointed out that if people become servants or humble themselves with the motive of seeking to be exalted, then they are not truly fulfilling Jesus' command and will not reap the reward promised here. Hypocrisy is an attitude or motive (see note 1 at Mt 21:23 and note 2 at Mt 23:2), and many people today have taken on religious mannerisms that appear self-debasing but in truth are "Pharisaisms."

"You all pray for me while I try to sing this special. I don't have a very good voice, but the Lord said all we had to do was make a joyful sound." This line has become a standard with many singers, yet if you agreed with them and said, "You're right! Your voice really is terrible," you would be in for a fight. That's hypocrisy. It was just a backhanded way of seeking to gain a compliment. That was not what Jesus was advocating.

Jesus was teaching about a true servant's heart that loves others more than self and will joyfully do without so that someone else may prosper.