Reverend, Doctor, Father, Etc.

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Reverend, Doctor, Father, Etc.

David McPherson

    In the religious world today most all who claim to be "preachers" wear some type of title to set themselves apart from common folks. It is a distinction known as clergy/laity.

    Messengers of the gospel are called preachers, evangelists, etc., but nowhere in the Bible are they taught to wear flashy titles that elevate themselves from the other church members. As a matter of fact, the Bible condemns such.

    Jesus taught, "But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master even Christ; and all ye are brethren" (Mt. 23:8). Christians are equally significant. There is no one more important than another in God's eyes. The use of titles like "Reverend," "Doctor," "Father," etc., is wrong - and furthermore "...whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased" (Mt. 23:12).

    In a Psalm of praise to the Lord, we read, "He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name" (Psa. 111:9). The "He" and the "his" in that passage is the Lord, not some denominational preacher! The name of God is to be revered, esteemed, highly exalted - not the name of the guy/gal who stands in the pulpit.



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