Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

Dear Reverend
Mark A. Copeland
INTRODUCTION
1. I occasionally receive letters or e-mail with the salutation “Dear Reverend...”
a. From people who are well-intentioned and seek only to show respect
b. For this is considered common courtesy and proper etiquette in addressing ministers
2. Regarding the word “reverend” as used in the Bible...
a. It is used only of God in our English Bible (KJV, ASV) - Psa 111:9
b. Other translations use these words:
1) “awesome” (NKJV, NASB, NIV, NRSV)
2) “fearsome” (CEV)
3) “awe-inspiring” (CSB)
4) “terrifying” (GW)
c. The Hebrew word (yare) is applied to men several times
1) Parents - Lev 19:3
2) Moses and Joshua - Josh 4:14
3) David - 1 Sam 18:29
3. Yet the term “Reverend” has become one of many titles worn by various religious leaders...
a. In Orthodox churches, the following are used depending upon one’s position:
1) His All Holiness, His Beatitude, His Eminence, His Excellency
2) The Right Reverend, The Very Right Reverend
3) The Very Reverend Father, Reverend Father, Mother Superior
b. Among Protestant churches, it is not uncommon to find these titles:
1) Father, Doctor
2) Apostle, Bishop, Pastor, Elder, Deacon
3) Evangelist, Preacher, Minister, Teacher
[Is the use of such titles appropriate? How about when describing what one does in the service of the
Lord? To answer these questions, consider first...]
I. THE USE OF TITLES
A. CONDEMNED BY JESUS...
1. The scribes and Pharisees loved to be called by men, ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ - Mt 23:7
2. Jesus forbid His disciples from being called:
a. Rabbi - Mt 23:8
b. Father - Mt 23:9
c. Teacher - Mt 23:10
B. FOR EXALTING MEN...
1. Jesus condemns the use of titles and salutations that exalt men above another
2. This is evident from the context
a. The scribes and Pharisees loved being exalted by men - Mt 23:6-7
b. But this is contrary to the principle of servitude and humility - Mt 23:11-12
c. We are to view ourselves equally as brethren - Mt 23:8
Topical Sermons 96