Titles in the Body of Christ

Excerpt:

Titles in the Body of Christ
Titles are inappropriate in the Body of Christ. Paul was "Paul an apostle" not "Apostle Paul." There is only one Apostle, that being Christ Jesus. Likewise, Silas was "Silas the prophet." Philip was "Philip the evangelist."

But be not ye 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. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. (Mat_23:8-12)

The principle is well stated in the final verse. By allowing ourselves to be called "apostle," "prophet," "pastor," "reverend," and so forth, we are exalting ourselves over our brothers and this is inappropriate.

To put another way, there is actually One Pastor, One Apostle, One Prophet in the Body of Christ, and many who are called to represent Him as apostles, prophets, pastors, and so forth to the world and to the church and by allowing others to give us flattering titles such as these we are usurping His place.

And whoever takes these titles and lords it over others will be brought down and those who humbly serve without title or recognition will be exalted in time.