In the Bible, particularly in Matthew 23:8-10, “Do not be called Rabbi” conveys Jesus’ teaching against seeking or valuing titles of authority and position among His followers. It emphasizes humility and equality, urging believers to recognize that they all have one Teacher, Christ, and are brothers and sisters in faith.
Scripture
1 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples,
2 “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat,
3 so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice.
4 They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger.
5 They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long,
6 and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues,
7 and greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi by others.
8 But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers.
9 And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.
10 Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ.
11 The greatest among you shall be your servant.
12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
“Do Not Be Called Rabbi” Meaning in the Bible
The directive “Do not be called Rabbi,” found in Matthew 23:8-10, serves as a profound exhortation from Jesus regarding humility and the nature of leadership within the Christian community. In this passage, Jesus underscores that while religious titles can confer authority, they also have the potential to foster pride and division. By stating that all believers are brothers and that Christ is the sole Teacher, He invites His followers to embrace a flattened hierarchy rooted in mutual servanthood rather than in the pursuit of personal honor. This aligns with other teachings in the Gospel, such as Mark 10:43-44, where Jesus asserts that greatness in God’s kingdom is achieved through servitude rather than dominance.
Moreover, this teaching reflects a broader biblical theme that warns against the dangers of self-exaltation and encourages a posture of humility and service. In James 4:10, believers are reminded to “humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” By directing followers away from the allure of titles like “Rabbi,” Jesus challenges them to prioritize their relationship with Him and each other over status. The ideal of community is thus reinforced; instead of striving for distinctions, the focus shifts to love, respect, and shared identity as children of God (1 John 3:1). Ultimately, Jesus’ teaching invites believers to value their collective identity in Christ more than their individual titles, promoting a radical redefinition of leadership and authority within the faith community.
The admonition against seeking titles such as “Rabbi” encapsulates a critical understanding of authority and responsibility in leadership roles within the Christian faith. This notion is supported throughout the New Testament, where the emphasis on servanthood and humility prevails. For example, Paul encourages believers in Ephesians 4:1-3 to live a life worthy of their calling, emphasizing the importance of humility, gentleness, and patience in maintaining unity within the body of Christ. This highlights a communal approach where the focus remains on Christ’s teachings rather than on individual accolades or status. Just as Christ modeled humility through His life and sacrifice, so too are His followers called to embody these values in their relationships, thereby fostering a community rooted in mutual respect and love rather than competition.
Furthermore, the early church exemplified this principle in their communal life, as depicted in Acts 2:44-47, where believers shared everything in common and lived in harmony. The avoidance of hierarchical titles reinforced a culture of equality and interdependence, echoing the teachings of Jesus about the nature of true leadership. Instead of vying for recognition and authority, the apostles and believers committed to serving one another, mirroring the sacrificial love Christ demonstrated. As such, the call to “not be called Rabbi” reverberates through the teachings of the New Testament, urging followers to reject the pursuit of human accolades and instead seek the humble path of Christlike service, which ultimately leads to genuine unity and the advancement of God’s kingdom on Earth.
The Call to Humility in Leadership
The phrase “Do not be called Rabbi” emphasizes the importance of humility among leaders and teachers within the faith community. It serves as a reminder that spiritual authority should not lead to pride or a sense of superiority. Instead, leaders are called to serve others selflessly, reflecting the servant leadership model exemplified by Jesus. This teaching encourages individuals in positions of authority to prioritize the well-being of their followers over their own status.
The Equality of Believers
Another broader meaning of this phrase is the affirmation of equality among believers. By discouraging titles that elevate one person above another, the teaching underscores the idea that all followers of Christ are equal in value and worth. This perspective fosters a sense of community and mutual respect, where each member contributes to the body of Christ without hierarchy. It reinforces the notion that spiritual wisdom and insight can come from anyone, regardless of their title or position.
The Focus on God as the Ultimate Teacher
The admonition against being called Rabbi also points to the idea that God is the ultimate teacher and source of wisdom. By redirecting attention away from human titles and accolades, it encourages believers to seek guidance and understanding directly from God. This perspective highlights the importance of personal relationship with the divine, where individuals are encouraged to rely on God’s teachings rather than human authority. It serves as a reminder that true knowledge and understanding come from a humble heart seeking God’s truth.
How to Cultivate Humility for Genuine Spiritual Leadership
Cultivating humility is essential for anyone aspiring to genuine spiritual leadership, as it allows us to serve others with a heart aligned to Christ’s example. Start by embracing the truth that leadership is not about authority or recognition, but about serving those around you. Reflect on Philippians 2:3-4, which encourages us to consider others better than ourselves and to look out for their interests. This mindset can be nurtured through regular self-examination and prayer, asking God to reveal areas of pride in your life. Surround yourself with wise mentors and engage in community, where you can learn from others and receive constructive feedback. Remember, humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less; it’s about recognizing that your gifts and abilities are not for your glory, but for the advancement of God’s kingdom. As you practice humility, you’ll find that your leadership becomes more authentic, compassionate, and impactful, reflecting the love of Christ in every interaction.
Bible References to “Do Not Be Called Rabbi”:
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.