Matthew 23:8

Translations

Modern

But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.

Traditional

But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.

Literal

But you shall not be called ‘Rabbi,’ for your Teacher is One, and you are all brothers.

Latin

Vos autem nolite vocari Rabbi: unus est enim magister vester, omnes autem vos fratres estis.

Original

Greek

English

But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers.

Notes

Matthew 23:8

Rabbi: In Judaism, these men were authoritative mediators for sharing knowledge about God (see Matthew 23:7). But under the new covenant, there is only one authoritative teacher, Jesus himself as the Messiah (see Jeremiah 31:31–34).

Matthew 23:8–12

Jesus does not forbid using titles (especially for one's father). Instead, he warns against claiming undue honor when teaching about God. In the community of Jesus, everyone is equal and knows God (see 12:46–50; 18:15–20). The titles Rabbi, Father, and Teacher are similar in meaning.

Theme notes and profiles

Jewish Leaders The Pharisees Pride and Humility Religious Hypocrisy

Events

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James 3:1
Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
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Matthew 23:10
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John 13:13–14
You call Me Teacher and Lord, and rightly so, because I am.
Colossians 1:1–2
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Romans 14:9–10
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Ephesians 3:15
…from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name.
Revelation 19:10
So I fell at his feet to worship him. But he told me, “Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

Matthew 23:8

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