Do Not Call Anyone Master-Father- or Teacher

In this lecture, Pope Shenouda III explains Christ’s words in Matthew 23: “Do not call anyone Master, Father, or Teacher,” showing that this verse is often misunderstood—especially by those who deny priestly fatherhood or ecclesial teaching.

The true biblical meaning
His Holiness clarifies that Christ did not forbid the use of titles themselves but confronted the pride of the scribes and Pharisees who loved positions and praise. The words were addressed to the twelve disciples in the last week before the Cross, as Christ was preparing to establish His new Church with pure spiritual leadership.

About “Teacher”

• Christ is the ultimate Teacher of all humanity, yet He entrusted His apostles with the task of teaching: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”

• Church teaching does not contradict Christ’s being the only Teacher, since priests and instructors are channels through which Christ Himself teaches His people.

• St. Paul used the terms “teacher” and “teaching” repeatedly, affirming that teaching is a priestly and apostolic ministry.

About “Father”

• Christ did not abolish human or spiritual fatherhood but distinguished between the heavenly Fatherhood of God and the spiritual fatherhood through which priests care for their children in faith.

• St. Paul called Timothy and Titus “my true sons in the faith,” and St. John said, “My little children, I write to you,” proving that spiritual fatherhood continues in the New Covenant.

• Fatherhood in the Church means love and care, not domination or superiority.

About “Master” and “Respect”

• The Bible itself repeatedly used the expression “my lord the king” when addressing kings and prophets, which does not contradict God’s lordship.

• There is a difference between worshipful bowing and respectful bowing; Solomon bowed to his mother out of honor, not worship.

• The Church uses titles like “Our Master” and “Our Father” as terms of reverence, not divinity.

Spiritual message

• Scripture must not be interpreted literally apart from its whole context.

• The Bible must be understood with the mind of the universal Church and through the Holy Spirit, not by isolated verses.

• Christ did not abolish teaching, fatherhood, or honor; He sanctified them as humble ministries within His Body, the Church.

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