In Matthew 23:8-10 Jesus taught his disciples not to wear religious titles. Such titles were coveted by the Scribes and Pharisees, who wanted the praise of men. However, Jesus said that his disciples should not wear such titles of distinction, for they were “all brethren.”
This is why we do not address our preachers with titles such as “Reverend,” “Father,” “Pastor,” or “Rabbi.” In the Lord’s church, men will not be addressed by titles of distinction — or will they?
I am of the belief that some religious titles, or titles of distinction, have “crept in unawares” among us. While we would never use the titles “Reverend” or “Father,” some among us will use the title “Brother.” For example, have you noticed how some reserve the title “Brother” for men who preach the gospel? Countless times, I have been in settings where people are being introduced, and it will go something like this, “Hi Mary, I’d like you to meet John, Jane, and Brother Steve.” If John and Jane are also brethren, why am I the only one who is given the title of “brother” in front of my name?
Even the world has come to realize that we employ titles in the church. A funeral director once wanted to know how to address me. He said, “I know you people in the church of Christ don’t use titles like Reverend or Father, you all use…let me think, oh yes, you all use “Brother.”
I have been told that people feel they are disrespecting me by failing to put the title “Brother” before my name. Friends, if you are interested in showing the Lord and me respect, you will not use the title “Brother” before my name or anyone else’s.
As a term denoting a common relationship in Christ, “brother” is good and right (Philemon 16; 2 Peter 3:15; Heb. 13:23). However, using “Brother” as a title to distinguish, elevate, or honor an individual is in violation of the Lord’s teaching. Remember, ” we are all brethren.”
by Steve Higginbotham