What is the meaning of Matthew 23:9? And do not call anyone on earth your father • Jesus is speaking to His disciples within earshot of the crowds and the religious leaders who loved lofty titles (Matthew 23:5-7). • The prohibition targets the use of “father” as an honorific that elevates a human leader to ultimate spiritual authority. • It does not negate the rightful, God-given role of biological fathers (Ephesians 6:2-4) or respectful social address (Acts 7:2). • The Lord places limits on titles so that no one on earth usurps the reverence, dependence, or submission that belongs to God alone. • Cross references: Matthew 23:8 “You are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.” 1 Peter 5:3 warns shepherds not to “lord it over those entrusted” to them. for you have one Father • Jesus immediately supplies the reason: believers already possess a single, sufficient Father. • God alone is the ultimate Source of life, authority, identity, and provision (Malachi 2:10; Acts 17:28-29). • Recognizing one Father guards unity in the body of Christ—no factions around charismatic personalities (1 Corinthians 1:12-13). • When spiritual leaders remember they are siblings under one Father, they serve rather than dominate (Matthew 20:25-28). who is in heaven • The location underscores God’s transcendence and superiority to every earthly structure (Isaiah 66:1). • Our hearts are drawn upward, reminding us that true citizenship is heavenly (Philippians 3:20). • The phrase also assures us of the Father’s perfect perspective and resources, encouraging childlike trust (Matthew 7:11; James 1:17). • By directing attention heavenward, Jesus frees us from misplaced reliance on human systems and titles. summary Jesus’ command in Matthew 23:9 is a loving safeguard. He forbids using “father” as a religious title that assigns ultimate spiritual authority to any person, because believers already have one perfect, heavenly Father who deserves their full trust, allegiance, and honor. Keeping this focus preserves humility among leaders, unity among believers, and wholehearted dependence on God alone. |
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