Matthew 23:10
Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.
Matthew 23:10 (KJV)
Context
Matthew 23 records Jesus’ strong rebuke of the scribes and Pharisees. He exposes their hypocrisy and warns the crowds and His disciples not to follow their example.
Meaning
Jesus tells His disciples not to be called “masters,” a term meaning guides, leaders, or instructors. The prohibition is against taking a title that raises a person to a place of ultimate authority that belongs to Christ alone. The Greek word behind “Master” is kathegetes, which can mean teacher, instructor, or leader. Jesus declares that believers have one Master, even Christ, and must recognize Him as the only true Teacher.
This teaching fits the immediate context. In Matthew 23:8, Jesus says His disciples are not to be called rabbi, for they have one Teacher and are all brethren. In verse 9, He says not to call any man father on earth, for they have one Father in heaven. Verses 11 and 12 add that the greatest among them shall be their servant, and whoever exalts himself will be humbled, while whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Together these verses emphasize humility, equality among believers, and submission to Christ’s authority.
Biblical connections
Jesus’ teaching here echoes His words in Matthew 20:25-28, where He contrasts worldly authority with servant leadership. The apostle Paul also urges believers to have a humble mindset, following Christ’s example of selflessness in Philippians 2:3-8.
Application
Cultivating humility: We should follow Jesus’ humility and avoid seeking positions of power for self-glory. Instead, we serve and uplift others.
Recognizing Christ’s authority: We must acknowledge Christ as the true Master and Teacher, submitting to His teachings and guidance. Our ultimate loyalty and obedience belong to Him.
Promoting equality and unity: In our interactions with fellow believers, we embrace the equality Jesus emphasized, avoiding hierarchies or divisions based on titles or positions.
While ministers of the word do lead and guide souls to Christ, they are to do so according to God’s word, not their own dictates, and they must never take the place of Christ as the ultimate authority.
Reflection
Jesus calls us to a humble, servant-hearted life. We are all equal under His authority, and He alone is our Master. Let us live in that truth, serving one another in love.
