How does Matthew 23:9 guide us in addressing spiritual leaders today? Text at the Heart of the Study Matthew 23:9: “And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.” Setting the Scene • The Lord is rebuking the scribes and Pharisees (Matthew 23:1-12). • They loved lofty titles—“Rabbi,” “Father,” “Instructor”—because titles fed their pride. • Jesus counters with three parallel commands: one Teacher (v. 8), one Father (v. 9), one Instructor (v. 10). Each points believers upward, not horizontally. Core Principle: Our One True Father • Ultimate spiritual authority rests in God alone. • Elevating a human leader to that place distorts both worship and fellowship. • The command is literal: do not grant a father-level, God-like authority to anyone on earth. What the Verse Does NOT Forbid • Normal family usage of “father” (Ephesians 6:1-2). • Spiritual mentoring that reflects humble service—Paul called himself a “father through the gospel” (1 Corinthians 4:15) but immediately pointed believers to Christ, not to himself (1 Corinthians 11:1). • Honoring leaders who labor in the Word (Hebrews 13:17). The issue is not respect; it is misplaced reverence. Guidelines for Addressing Leaders Today • Use functional titles (“pastor,” “elder,” “teacher”) that describe service, not supremacy. • Test every sermon, book, and conference by Scripture (Acts 17:11). • When leaders are quoted, give God’s Word the final say. • Encourage a culture where pastors welcome accountability rather than bask in adulation. Responsibilities Spiritual Leaders Must Embrace • Shepherd, not dominate (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Equip saints, not build personal empires (Ephesians 4:11-12). • Remember stricter judgment awaits teachers (James 3:1). • Direct all praise heavenward—“Soli Deo Gloria.” Practical Checkpoints for Congregations • If the leader’s name eclipses Jesus’ name, danger lights are flashing. • If disagreement is labeled rebellion instead of an occasion for open Bible study, authority has drifted. • If titles grow longer while servant-heartedness grows thinner, revisit Matthew 23:9. • If a leader cannot be corrected by Scripture, he has claimed a father-level authority Christ forbids. A Balanced Posture • Respect: “Obey your leaders and submit to them” (Hebrews 13:17). • Discernment: “Examine everything carefully; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Humility for all: “You are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). Living the Truth Let titles shrink, let service shine, and let every voice—preacher and pew alike—echo the same confession: “We have one Father, who is in heaven.” |
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