It is common today to hear religious leaders referred to by titles such as “Reverend,” “Doctor,” “Rabbi,” “Father,” or even “Pastor.” But does the Bible authorize such titles for preachers? Ask your preacher!
In the Bible, we don’t see the apostles or early Christians using these titles. Do we read of “Rev. Peter” or “Dr. Paul”? What about “Father James” or “Rabbi John”? These titles, commonly used today, were never applied to the leaders of the early church in scripture. Instead, they embraced humility, recognizing that glory and honor belong to God alone.
The term “pastor” is often used today as a title for preachers, but in the New Testament, the term is used specifically for elders or shepherds who care for the local church. In Acts 20:28 (NASB), Paul addresses the elders, saying, “Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” The word “shepherd” is translated from the same Greek word as “pastor,” indicating that pastors are the elders or shepherds of the congregation, not preachers. Ephesians 4:11 (NASB) also uses “pastors” in this context: “And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers.” Here, “pastors” are clearly distinguished from evangelists (preachers).
In Psalm 111:9 (NASB), we see the term “reverend” used, but not for any human being. The scripture says, “He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; Holy and awesome [reverend] is His name.” This verse describes God, not man, as being worthy of such a title. Why, then, would we apply a title to ourselves that is used in reference to God?
Moreover, Jesus Himself taught against the use of titles like “Rabbi” or “Father” in religious settings. In Matthew 23:8-9 (NASB), Jesus said, “But do not be called Rabbi; for One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers. Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven.” Here, Jesus makes it clear that His followers should not seek these titles of exaltation. We have only one spiritual Father—God.
If your preacher uses such titles, it might be worth asking why and where this practice is authorized in scripture. Perhaps he has overlooked these passages, or maybe he has an explanation. Either way, we are called to follow Christ’s teachings and not elevate human leaders in ways that contradict what the Bible says.
Feel free to share this question and start a conversation about the importance of humility and honor as taught in scripture.
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