I think Jesus believes that everyone, including lowly people and people in power, has the same value.  He demonstrates this by dying on the cross for EVERYBODY, not just lowly people, or powerful people, but EVERYBODY.  We are impressed by Jesus reaching out to lowly people and express his care for them, but I believe Jesus also expresses his concern for powerful people in ways that they need.  For exmaple, scolding may be a form of showing care, that he cares for them enough to scold them.  He also talks with a Pharisee teacher in the evening (John 3); and goes to the homes of Pharisees to eat (John 7:36)