A.T. Robertson Commentary Mark 12:39

"and chief seats in the synagogues, and chief places at feasts:" — Mark 12:39 (ASV)

First seats in the synagogues (πρωτοκαθεδριας). As a mark of special piety, seats up in front while now the hypocrites present in church prefer the rear seats.

Chief places at feasts (πρωτοκλισιας εν τοις δειπνοις). Recognizing proper rank and station. Even the disciples fall victims to this desire for precedence at table (Luke 22:24).