Call No One On Earth Father

Below is my response to a question regarding Matthew 23:9. My answer was quick, but I felt the need to expand on it. So, I texted my dear brother the following:

“I gave more thought to the question about calling someone on earth "father" (Matthew 23:9).

I had forgotten the context of the passage which sheds more light on its meaning. Jesus told  His disciples to comply with the teaching of the Pharisees but not to follow their examples because they were hypocrites (23:2-4). They loved to be honored in public and called by impressive titles (23:5-7).

That hasn't changed. Even today most church leaders love impressive titles, especially "Doctor." As Jesus said, they seek the "glory of men" which is "their reward" (Matt. 6:2). As for calling a leader "father," Jesus forbade it because, He said, “you have one Father...in heaven" (Matt. 23:9), the One to whom we pray, "Our Father which art in heaven. Hallowed be thy name" (Matt. 6:9). No man should ever be so addressed. Thus, while having a title is not a sin, no leader should seek a title just to be honored and that way build up his pride. It's natural for children to say "Father" or "Daddy," but not as though he is their Creator, God. I believe Jesus was making that point. I hope that's a little clearer.” Understandably, titles mostly indicate positions held by highly profiled people (“President,” “Officer,” “Pastor,” etc.), and as we acknowledge that God placed them in that position, we honor and respect them.