In Matthew 23:8-9 Jesus instructed his disciples to call no man a Rabbi or a Father. What about other titles like Reverend or Pastor? What did Jesus mean? Patriarchs such as Abraham, David and Jacob had long been called fathers. Jesus was not banning honor for human fathers or ancestors or religious leaders. He was making the point that ultimately honor to God is supreme and leaders must have the attitude of a humble servant.
Paul called himself a father to the Corinthians. Father means an initiator, a promoter, a sponsor, a director, a forerunner or spiritual predecessor. Reverend means someone who is loved and honored. Pastor simply means shepherd. Mister coming from master can mean teacher.
Jesus then did not condemn titles per se, but the attitude of using titles for wrong purposes, such as self promotion and self aggrandizement. The greatest among you must be a servant. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled. That's what Jesus said.
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