Matthew 23:9 Meaning and Explanation
“And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jesus warns against giving any earthly person the ultimate place that belongs to God the Father in heaven.
What Does Matthew 23:9 Mean?
Continuing his charge against the pursuit of titles, Jesus speaks of 'father' as a designation of supreme authority and reverence. He is not abolishing the honor owed to a parent, which Scripture commands, but forbidding the elevation of any human to the place of final authority over the soul.
Above every earthly relationship stands one Father in heaven, the true source of life and the one to whom ultimate devotion is due. Jesus draws the eyes of his followers upward, so that no human figure eclipses God. To hold this truth steadies the heart: human teachers and guides may help us, but they are not our origin or our highest loyalty. The Father in heaven holds that place alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 23:9
What does Matthew 23:9 mean?
Jesus warns against giving any earthly person the ultimate place that belongs to God the Father in heaven.