How does Matthew 23:9 relate to the concept of spiritual authority? The Verse in Context • Matthew 23 records Jesus exposing the pride of the scribes and Pharisees. • In v. 9 He says, “And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.” • The issue is not biological parenthood but spiritual posturing—leaders claiming a role that belongs to God alone. Meaning of “Call No Man Father” • “Father” implies origin, authority, and ultimate care. • Jesus redirects honor upward: God alone is the source of life and authority. • Biological or affectionate uses of “father” are not in view (cf. Luke 15:20); the warning targets spiritual titles that foster pride. Implications for Spiritual Authority • God is the sole fountain of authority; human leaders hold delegated, derived authority. • Titles must never eclipse dependence on the Father: “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). • Prideful use of titles corrupts leadership; Jesus exalts humility (Matthew 23:11–12). Balancing Human Leadership with Divine Supremacy • God still appoints leaders: – “He… gave some to be apostles… pastors and teachers” (Ephesians 4:11). – “Obey your leaders and submit to them” (Hebrews 13:17). • Genuine leaders function as under-shepherds: – “Be shepherds… not lording it over those entrusted to you” (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Even Paul, who calls himself a spiritual father (1 Corinthians 4:15), does so to point people to Christ, not to replace the heavenly Father. Practical Applications • Examine motives: seek to serve, not to be revered. • Use every ministry role to direct attention to God, not self. • Submit to godly leaders while remembering their accountability to the Father. • Guard vocabulary and attitudes—titles are fine when they honor service but wrong when they supplant God’s supremacy. • Cultivate a culture in which every believer sees God as the primary authority and human leaders as humble stewards. |
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