In the church, the custom of addressing each other as Mr. and Mrs. has been long practiced, though these forms of address are less formal now than in the past. Insistence on such formality may be overdone, as it can make relationships stilted and narrow, potentially leading to elitism, which is akin to respect of persons. The church is described as a brotherhood and a family in Scripture, and Jesus Himself emphasized that all are brethren. Evidence suggests that the English word "mister" derives from "master," a term Jesus cautioned against using as a title that elevates one above another. The use of formal titles may stem from a sincere effort to avoid disrespect, particularly toward an elder's or deacon's office, but it risks losing warmth, intimacy, and approachability—qualities essential to familial bonds. While respect is obligated by God, insisting on formal titles among brothers and sisters, even for those in office, may not be necessary. Instead, sincere and heartfelt respect should be given to those in office within the church for their work's sake, rooted in love rather than formality.

Within the church of God, a troubling trend persists as certain leaders seize for themselves lofty ecclesiastical titles such as apostle, prophet, the First Witness, the Voice, and even the Messianic Prophet of Deuteronomy 18:18. These self-appointed designations reflect a desire to draw followers to personal agendas and projects rather than to God. Amidst such turmoil, it remains clear that God is sovereign, and Jesus Christ, as the head over the church, continues to build, sanctify, and cleanse it with unwavering love and purpose. He ensures that His church will not disintegrate, acting always in the way and at the time that is best for its growth and purification.

Jesus Christ denounces the assuming of ecclesiastical titles, highlighting a practice among religious leaders of His time that fostered pride and a desire for power. These leaders sought deference through outward displays and titles such as Rabbi, Master, or Father, which Jesus opposed as contrary to the humility and inward relationship with God that should characterize true faith. This assumption of titles created a culture of unwarranted reverence and authority, where disciples were expected to obey without question and show excessive deference, a practice foreign to the equality and mutual submission God desires within the church community. Instead, the government of God rests on Christ's shoulders, not on the ministry's, emphasizing that true authority lies with Him as the Head, and not in human chains of command or titles that elevate one above another.

In the context of church governance, the use of ecclesiastical titles is addressed with caution. Jesus Christ Himself instructs in Matthew 23:8-12 not to call any man your teacher, for there is one Teacher, Christ, and all are brothers within the same family. This teaching emphasizes a brother/sister relationship among believers, highlighting that the authority in the church resides in Jesus Christ. He warns against the use of honorific titles, as they can create distinctions and hierarchies not aligned with the familial nature of God's church. The commentary from Tyndall's New Testament on Matthew 23 further supports this by urging the church to avoid excessive deference to formal ecclesiastical titles or authoritative status, such as "Most Reverend" or "my Lord bishop," as well as overemphasis on academic qualifications. Instead, the focus should be on recognizing Christ as the sole Leader and maintaining equality among members as part of God's family.

Let us reflect on the critical warning against presumption within the Body of Christ, particularly concerning the taking of ecclesiastical titles or roles not appointed by God. The apostle Paul, in Romans 12:3, urges us not to think more highly of ourselves than we ought, but to think soberly, recognizing that God has apportioned to each a measure of faith and a purpose designed for service. This instruction is a safeguard against the prideful assumption of positions or authority that belong solely to God's discretion. An alarming example of such presumption is seen in the claim of individuals asserting themselves as the Two Witnesses, presuming a role and authority not granted by God. Such actions reflect a dangerous overstepping of boundaries, ignoring the divine order and placement within the Body of Christ as determined by Him. This kind of self-elevation disregards the humility required of those set apart for service, leading to division and deception among God's people. Historical accounts further illustrate the peril of such behavior. In Numbers 12:1-3, Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses, questioning his unique role as God's chosen leader, driven by their own sense of sanctification. Their presumption was met with divine correction, highlighting the importance of recognizing God's purposeful placement. Similarly, in Numbers 16, Korah, Dathan, and Abiram challenged Moses and Aaron, asserting that all the congregation was holy and questioning why they exalted themselves. Their rebellion led to severe consequences, as God reaffirmed His chosen order, demonstrating that presumptuous claims to authority not given by Him result in disaster. These examples underscore the necessity of humility and submission to God's will in our roles within His plan. We must guard against the temptation to take upon ourselves what is not ours, ensuring that we remain focused on the positions God has assigned, serving with a contrite spirit for His glory alone.