As for you, do not call me sir, father, or teacher
The speaker explains that the cited passages were said in the context of Christ confronting the scribes and Pharisees during the last week before the crucifixion, and that the intent was to clear the way for a new spiritual leadership established by the Church and the apostles. The verses were said particularly to the apostles (the twelve) not to everyone, and in the context of abolishing corrupt religious leaders.
The Role of Teaching in the Church
He affirms that the Lord entrusted teaching to the apostles, and the apostles passed this task to their successors; therefore teaching is the whole Church’s ministry, and preaching and teachers are necessary because lack of teaching destroys the people. It is emphasized that teaching does not contradict Christ’s saying if we understand who is being addressed.
Distinguishing Honorific Titles from Worship
The speaker clarifies the difference between honorific titles and prostration as veneration (respect) and prostration of worship. Using titles such as “my lord” or prostration of respect appears in the Holy Scripture and does not negate the sovereignty of God; when Christ taught us to say “Our Father who art in heaven” he wanted to distinguish the heavenly Father from earthly fathers.
Scriptural Examples and Method of Interpretation
He mentions examples from Paul’s and John’s epistles and from the Old Testament that show some words addressed to the apostles or uses like “father” were specifically directed or spiritual, and that correct understanding requires collecting all related verses and studying the subject scholastically rather than relying on a single verse.
Warning and Educational Guidance
He criticizes those who take one verse and use it to override other texts, and calls on clerical students to read the book of the priesthood and spiritual books to become true teachers committed to the spirit of the book not merely the letter.
Practical Spiritual Conclusion
The summary is that Christ intended to fight hypocrisy and corrupt leadership and to affirm that teaching and pastoral care remain a function of the Church, with respect for distinguishing spiritual authority from worship of God alone, and with a call to true spiritual knowledge granted by wisdom from above.
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