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"Where in the Bible were preachers ever called by the titles of Reverand, Doctor, Rabbi and Father?"

The practice is quite general in religious circles today. We constantly read in the papers of men who are called by these terms. We read of Reverend Smith, or Doctor Jones, or Rabbi Jacob, or Father Hezekiah.

But where can such things be found in the Bible?

Do you remember reading of Rev. Peter, Rev. Paul or the Right Reverend Barnabas? Can you recall the passage of Scripture that speaks of Dr. James or Dr. John?
No reference is made to the degree of Doctor of medicine or to other Doctor's degrees that have been received as a result of literary attainments in some field of science or philosophy, but to the use of the term as a religious title. However, the prevalent use of such educational degrees in referring to men engaged in religious work seems to ignore the principle of humility as taught by the Savior. And religious Doctors are altogether unscriptural. These are important matters in which we ought to be interested.

I do recall that the word "reverend" occurs one time in the Bible.
In Psa. 111:9 I read this statement: "He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant forever: holy and reverend is His name." In this language of David we learn that "reverend" is descriptive of God's name. What right then, does man have to wear a term that is given only to God?

And as to other titles worn by preachers note this statement from the lips of Jesus: "But be ye not called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ: and all ye are brethren. And call no man your Father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven." Matt. 23:8,9.

Could you think of instruction that is plainer? Jesus simply says for his people not to be called Rabbi, for we have but one master, and that is Christ.

Why, then, will any man call himself Rabbi and have others call him that? And why will men call him that? Perhaps it is because they do not know that Jesus said not to do it. But this is exactly what he said. And why will people call some religious leader Father?

I may not know why people do so, but I do know that Jesus said to "call no man upon earth your Father." These men who take this title to themselves are upon earth.

So Jesus includes them. We have but one Father and that is God. We should not give to human beings that honor that is due God only. But maybe your preacher knows of a passage I have overlooked.

So if he wears the title Reverend, Doctor, Rabbi or Father, ask him where he gets his authority in the Bible for doing so. If it is in the Bible, he will be able to tell you where to find it; and if he tells you there is no such authority in the Bible, then ask him why he wears such titles, and call his attention to what Jesus said about it.

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