Meaning of "Call No Man Father" in Matthew 23
Understanding "Call No Man Father" in Matthew 23
The phrase "call no man father upon the earth" in Matthew 23:9 has been a subject of interpretation and debate among Christian traditions. The verse, as translated in the Tyndale Bible, reads: "And call no man youre father vpon the erth for there is but one youre father and he is in heven" [1].
Literary Context
Matthew 23 is part of a larger discourse where Jesus critiques the Pharisees and scribes for their hypocrisy and pride. The chapter is a collection of Jesus' sayings that condemn the religious leaders of the time for their external religiosity and lack of true spiritual devotion. The specific instruction to "call no man father" is part of a series of warnings against seeking titles or positions of authority that could lead to pride and a sense of superiority over others [2].
Historical Setting
The historical setting of Matthew 23 is crucial for understanding Jesus' statement. Jesus is addressing a Jewish audience familiar with the religious hierarchy of their time, where titles like "Rabbi" were used to signify respect and authority. Jesus' warning is not against the use of titles per se but against the spirit of pride and superiority they can foster [4].
Key Terms and Exegetical Decisions
The term "father" (πατήρ, patēr) in Matthew 23:9 is significant. Jesus is not prohibiting the use of the term for biological parents or spiritual guides who have played a role in one's faith journey. The prohibition is against using "father" as a title that implies spiritual authority or superiority over others [3].
One of the major exegetical decisions involves understanding the scope of Jesus' prohibition. Is it against all forms of authority or titles, or is it specifically against the misuse of such titles to foster pride and superiority? Commentators like John Gill argue that Jesus is not condemning all titles or forms of address but rather the authoritative and superior attitude they can represent [3].
Range of Interpretations
The interpretation of "call no man father" varies among Christian traditions. Some see it as a strict prohibition against using titles that imply spiritual authority, while others understand it as a warning against the pride and superiority that can accompany such titles. Jamieson, Fausset & Brown suggest that to interpret this as a condemnation of all titles for church rulers is to condemn the concept of church rule itself, which is not supported by the New Testament [2].
John Chrysostom, representing Eastern Orthodox thought, emphasizes the importance of humility and the dangers of covetousness and pride, though not directly addressing Matthew 23:9. His writings highlight the broader context of Jesus' teachings on humility and the responsible use of titles and authority [5].
Function in Tradition
The instruction to "call no man father" has functioned in various ways within Christian tradition. Some Christian groups have interpreted it literally, avoiding the use of "father" as a title for clergy or spiritual leaders. Others have understood it as a call to humility, emphasizing the spiritual fatherhood of God and the equality of all believers before Him [3].
Sources
- Matthew “Matthew 23:9 (Tyndale) — And call no man youre father vpon the erth for there is but one youre father and he is in heven.”
- Matthew (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on Matthew 23:9: And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven, &c.--To construe these injunctions into a condemnation of every title by which Church rulers may be distinguished from the flock which they rule, is virtually to condemn that rule itself; and accordingly the same persons do both--but against the whole strain of the New Testament and sound Christian judgment. But when we have guarded ourselves against these extremes, let us see to it that we retain the full spirit of this warning against that itch for ecclesiastical”
- Matthew (Baptist/Reformed) “John Gill on Matthew 23:9: And call no man your father upon the earth,.... Not but that children may, and should call their natural parents, fathers; and such who have been instrumental in the conversion of souls, may be rightly called by them their spiritual fathers; as servants and scholars also, may call those that are over them, and instruct them, their masters: our Lord does not mean, by any of these expressions, to set aside all names and titles, of natural and civil distinction among men, but only to reject all such names and titles, as are used to signify an authoritative power over me”
- Matthew (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on Matthew 23:8: But be not ye called Rabbi; for one is your Master--your Guide, your Teacher.”
- CCEL/NPNF (Eastern Orthodox) “John Chrysostom, Homilies on John & Hebrews: cease from covetousness, he who continues in giving to the poor, will soon cease from anger, and will never even be high-minded. For as the physician continually tending wounded persons is easily sobered, beholding human nature in the calamities of others; so we, if we enter upon the work of aiding the poor, shall easily become truly wise, and shall not admire riches, nor deem present things any great matter, but despise them all, and soaring aloft to heaven, shall easily obtain the eternal blessings, through the grace and lovingkindness of our Lord”