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Matthew 23

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mavis92379:
Hi All,

In Matthew 23:8,9,10 Jesus commands not to call any man your rabbi, father or teacher. I noticed in 1 Cor 12:27-29 that God gave some to be teachers. Im aware that because God placed teachers on earth it does not justify calling them that. 

I have always interpreted Mat 23:9 to mean there is no other fatherhood on earth. Jesus uses the same statement in reference to teachers but we see in 1 Cor 12 that there are teachers here with us on earth. Im a bit confused now with what the statement call no man on your earth your father means. Even though its still quite clear we shouldnt refer to anyone as father, does this leave the interpretation of Matt 23:9 open that there are "fathers" on the earth other than the one Father in heaven ?

Thanks,

Matt

Kat:

Hi Matt,

I thought the way that Thayer described this was very helpful.

Thayer Definition:
1) generator or male ancestor
  1a) either the nearest ancestor: father of the corporeal nature, natural fathers, both parents
  1b) a more remote ancestor, the founder of a family or tribe, progenitor of a people, forefather:
       so Abraham is called, Jacob and David
    1b1) fathers, i.e. ancestors, forefathers, founders of a nation
  1c) one advanced in years, a senior
2) metaphorically
  2a) the originator and transmitter of anything
     2a1) the authors of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself
     2a2) one who has infused his own spirit into others, who actuates and governs their minds
  2b) one who stands in a father’s place and looks after another in a paternal way
  2c) a title of honour
     2c1) teachers, as those to whom pupils trace back the knowledge and training they have received
     2c2) the members of the Sanhedrin, whose prerogative it was by virtue of the wisdom
            and experience in which they excelled, to take charge of the interests of others
3) God is called the Father
  3a) of the stars, the heavenly luminaries, because he is their creator, upholder, ruler
  3b) of all rational and intelligent beings, whether angels or men, because he is their creator,
       preserver, guardian and protector
     3b1) of spiritual beings and of all men
  3c) of Christians, as those who through Christ have been exalted to a specially close
       and intimate relationship with God, and who no longer dread him as a stern judge
       of sinners, but revere him as their reconciled and loving Father
  3d) the Father of Jesus Christ, as one whom God has united to himself in the closest bond of
        love and intimacy, made acquainted with his purposes, appointed to explain and carry out
        among men the plan of salvation, and made to share also in his own divine nature
     3d1) by Jesus Christ himself
     3d2) by the apostles


I think when we speak of something it is always what the intent that we use the word that God looks at. If we are simply referring to a biological father, God knows that. The metaphorically for 'father' that Thayer used, "the authors of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself... one who has infused his own spirit into others, who actuates and governs their minds." This helps to understand why a true believer would reserve that spiritual title only when speaking of our heavenly Father, only He deserves that kind of title from us.

Now here you will see what I believe this Scripture is referring to. The Pope of the Roman Catholic Church is addressed as Holy Father, a priest is usually referred to as Father or even as Reverend Father. Religious priests (members of religious orders) are addressed "Father" in all countries (Père, Pater, Padre etc.). In the Greek-Catholic Church, all clergy are called "Father" including deacons, who are titled "Father Deacon," "Deacon Father," or simply "Father". (From Wikipedia)

To me the way the churches are using the title 'father' is giving a man the respect and title only the heavenly Father deserves. It's just wrong and no justification for it.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

mavis92379:
Thank you Kat.

I agree that there is no justification in referring to a catholic priest as father. Call no man on earth your teacher but we see that God has given some to be teachers on earth. Now when Christs says call no man on earth your father is it possible that those that are spiritual and guides to others are fathers ? I see Peter refers to Marcus in 1Peter5:13 as his son. Did Marcus look to Peter as fulfilling some fatherly role to him spiritually ? Why are these terms used if the practice is forbidden in Matt 23 :9 ?

Thanks,

Matt

Kat:

Well I can see where someone respects another person for helping them spiritually and make look up to them and seek additional help. But we always need to recognize the source of all knowledge is God the Father, "One is your Teacher" (verse 08). Christ knows that it is very easy for us to look at a person that teaches us with adoration and awe, which can lead to their being puffed up. Jesus had just spoken of this in the verses before.

Mat 23:5  They do all their deeds to be seen by men; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long,
v. 6  and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues,
v. 7  and salutations in the market places, and being called rabbi by men.

Since people are so easily puffed up we should avoid having titles of rank that seems to aid in one thinking too highly of themself.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

aktikt:
Here's a puzzler.  Given the above discussion how does this verse harmonize?

1 Cor 4:15
For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

aktikt

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