THE STORY OF JESUS: Matthew 23-1-12
“The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
I am not a fan of people giving me titles, like pastor, or reverent, or worst of all dominee.
This last one is a practice in my dutch tradition; the word origin is ‘lord’.
The argument given for these titles is ‘respect’, but I consider them hugely disrespectful.
Jesus plainly warns against using such titles, they go against who we really are.
I have a role, but my role is not to draw attention to myself with titles and privileges.
My position is like John the Baptist, “He must become greater; I must become less.” (John 3:30).
If it was good enough for Paul to be simply “Paul, servant of Jesus”, can I demand more?
Sadly, church leaders have too often welcomed this ‘leader worship’.
The church through history has imitated the world’s definitions of respect.
Bowing to church leaders, giving them titles and privileges, kissing their rings.
And they welcomed it, receiving such titles and honours, and dressing like worldly royalty.
“Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12)
Please don’t respect me with titles I do not deserve or want, please respect Jesus!
If I am not helping you respect Jesus more, then I’m not doing my job!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, forgive me for the subtle ways I draw attention away from You to myself. And protect me from the ego boost when people recognize and respect me for my roles. You must become greater, I must become less!