Playlist:

playlist Go to the Titles, Ecclesiastical (topic) playlist

Filter by Categories

Respect or Respect of Persons?

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

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.

'I Will Build My Church'

CGG Weekly by David C. Grabbe

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.

Government (Part Six)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

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.

The Commandments (Part Ten)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The fifth commandment provides a bridge, connecting our relationships with God and the relationships with our fellow human beings.

Self-Government: Overcoming

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We dare not allow anybody to come between God's direct governance and ourselves. Even God's government will not work unless we voluntarily govern ourselves.

Think Soberly (Part One)

Sermon by Mark Schindler

As we examine our spiritual gifts, we must avoid any presumption that we alone carry exclusive knowledge that other church groups are too blind to see.

Private Religion

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Someone misusing piety to draw attention to themselves to enhance their reputation destroys character and they will not enter the Kingdom of God.

Tychicus the Messenger

Sermonette by Jared M. Ellis

Examining Tychicus, the companion and helper of Paul, we see many godly actions and characteristics like eagerness to serve and bringing the comfort of his news to congregations underlying his role of messenger that we should emulate. Ephesians 6: 21-22 shows that he had a larger role than the just delivering the messages; we see that he came to strengthen the hearts of brethren. Even though there are not too many references mentioning him, he had a large impact on the congregations he does visit. The apostle Paul made use of his services that he was eager to assist him building the faraway churches. Those far away locations involved traveling on ships, hostile countries, and navigating different cultures. Even though Tychicus did not have an important title, he exemplified whatever position we are given we should be quickly willing to serve God and the brethren and sometimes go outside our comfort zones to fulfill our calling.

Letters to Seven Churches (Part One): Introduction

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

We must keep the spiritual lessons of the letters, not just figure out prophecies. There are several ways to view them, but the most important is personally.

Should a Minister of God Be Addressed as 'Reverend' (Matthew 23:8-11)?

Bible Questions & Answers

The use of religious titles, such as 'Reverend,' began when apostasy set in at the close of the first century. God alone has a name worthy of reverence.