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Using The Title “Reverend”

Preachers in New Testament times did not wear the title “Reverend” nor does any man have the right to do so. Some folks have never grasped this point. One woman insists on addressing her mail to the preacher as “Reverend” so-and-so, although several individuals have explained to her that gospel preachers do not wear religious titles.

The Old Testament uses the word “reverend” with respect to the reverence due God (Psalms 111:9-KJV); Wearing religious titles like “reverend,” makes a distinction between “clergy” and “laity” distinguishing so-called religious classes.

Though the clergy in Catholicism wear several different titles to distinguish rank, each is commonly called “reverend.” They elevate and emphasize these titles by using “Most Reverend,” “Right Reverend,” etc.

In fact, among these “religious” folk, not recognizing proper rank could be insulting — like someone with a PhD being insulted if he is not addressed as “Doctor.” Mainline denominations have followed this distinction regarding religious classes.

The Bible clearly teaches against such a distinction. Our Lord said:

“But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth your father, for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself will be abased, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:8-12).

If we want to use a biblical title when addressing a fellow Christian, why not simply use the word “servant”? (Romans 1:1; Philippians 1:1; Titus 1:1; James 1:1; 2 Peter 1:1; Jude 1:1).

But knowing man’s ego and the problems associated with it, we would probably begin attaching qualifying words such as “Best Servant,” “Most Humble Servant,” or “Most Holy Servant.” We would surely take pride in being the best, most sacrificial servant, and mess up the whole concept Jesus was trying to teach.

Both Psalms 89:7 and Psalm 111:9 address the rightful place of God as above man (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:3). God stresses man’s need to keep Him in the proper perspective (Hebrews 12:28).

Let us never forget that God alone is God (Mark 12:32; cf. Deuteronomy 4:39; Isaiah 45:5-6; Isaiah 45:18; Isaiah 46:9). Therefore, to Him alone belongs the sovereign right of exaltation and worship (John 4:21-24).