Reverend?By Steven F. Deaton |
|
Jesus said of the scribes and Pharisees, “They love … greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi.’ But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ” (Matt. 23:6-10). Jesus does not condemn calling your dad, father, or your professor, teacher. Rather, He condemns the use of religious titles. Roman Catholics call their priests “Father” in direct violation of the Lord’s teaching. Other religious groups that can see this is sinful will turn around and exalt their preacher the same way—just with a different name. “Reverend,” “Bishop,” “Pastor,” and even “Preacher” are misused and abused. “Reverend” is applied to God in Psalm 111:9 (King James Version). To use such an appellative for man is to either raise man to the level of God or bring God down to the level of man, either of which is blasphemy. The New Testament does talk about men who are bishops (overseers), pastors (shepherds), and preachers (ministers), but never does it use those terms as titles. Rather, these are descriptions of what men do (Eph. 4:11; 1 Pet. 5:1-2; Rom. 10:14). We urge you and your preacher to give up the use of all Pharisaic titles. To do anything less is to contradict Christ. |
I will build My church. |
