Results 1 - 4 of 4
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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Ordered by Verse | ||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | Why Rabbi? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66588 | ||
Dear justme, Greetings in the name of Jesus! I try to give the 'benefit of the doubt' to situations such as this. Indeed, there are many that simply want to share with others what they recieve at home. In many churches, calling a minister 'Elder Elijah' or 'Deacon David' or 'Pastor Paul' is considered a sign of both familiarity and respect. I don't have much problem with this, though I must admit it sounds a bit 'hokey.' :-) A major denomination is enthralled with the use of 'Bro.' and 'Bros.' (not spelled out 'Brother') I thought this was fine until I found that some were VERY serious about the proper usage. If the person did not meet with their standard, the 'title' was revoked. (apparently this has something to do with their doctrine of 'closed-communion' and recognition of standing with the Lord) This one, I believe, can be abusive. Other groups use 'Brother Barnabas (or Sister Sarah'), (spelled out) to mean minister, while others use it across the board for all of faith. While 'cute,' this can be a bit tedious and-or contrived. One major religion recommends calling it's ordained ministers 'Father,' and this is where a clear contradiction of Bible teaching shows up. I am sure they have a 'plausible' excuse for this. Perhaps I can be 'enlightened?' :-) FInally, we have a recent trend of calling ministers by some pseudo-Biblical moniker. I have heard 'Prophet Peter' and 'Disciple Daniel' and 'Teacher Thomas,' and I am sure there are others. Perhaps 'Rabbi Rueben' is a new one? I , too, find it difficult to use these 'titles,' but can't really judge. To be fair, I will explain my own situation. I pastor a church in Japan. In this society, first names are not often used, and even then, '-san' is added. When a person is a teacher, they are commonly called 'Sensei' (Watch 'Karate Kid' :-)) A pastor is often called 'Bokushi-sensei' (Pastor-Teacher) or even 'Bokushi-sama' (exalted Pastor). I found myself in a dilemma! Most Japanese people cannot bring themselves to call a 'teacher' by his first name, even with the '-san' attached! Well, for some reason obscured by time (senility?), I ended up being referred to as 'Pasutaa,' which is the phonetic representation of 'Pastor.' I guess it doesn't bother me so much, as this is the same word we use for Italian noodles. :-) For some reason, this satisfies the societal dictates, and I pray that I am not 'desiring' this moniker as a 'title' to rule over another soul. In fact, I get a chuckle (and so do they!) every time someone hears the explanation that 'pastor' sounds like 'pasta.' Now I have to go on a 'low-carbo' diet! :-) Friend, I agree with you, we have nothing to boast about! No amount of Bible-knowledge or years-in-faith or 'salvations-to-our-credit' will make us any 'more saved.' Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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2 | Why Rabbi? | Eph 5:33 | Emmaus | 66599 | ||
Hello Charis, We have not corresponded in quite a while. You have addressed the issues of titles very well and broadly, with the addition of an interesting cultural context. I will post a note on the narrower issue of the title "Father" within the context of my background (and a little word study) since it comes up from time to time in my personal encounters with others. Emmaus |
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3 | Why Rabbi? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66619 | ||
Dear Emmaus, Greetings in Jesus' name! Yes, 'Brother' Emmaus, it has been a while. ;-) Please accept my apology if I was rude about 'a major religion.' Please know that I hold you and your faith in Christ Jesus in the highest regard! I look forward to hearing from you about the title 'Father.' While I am saying that, let me also say that I have spoken at length with priests and brothers and long-time faithful Catholics, but never have I had the pleasure of real fellowship in Christ Jesus and the Bible until I met you here. You are a credit to your church. (I hope I didn't make you blush! :-)) With your permission, let me tell you some further experiences with 'titles' in Japan. Christians are rare here, and Christian ministers more rare. Most Japanese have never met a minister of the Gospel, and only seen them on TV, usually some 'gaijin' (foreigner) ackowledging wedding vows in a cheesy soap opera! Most of these TV directors have no clue what a Christian (of ANY persuasion) is, so invariably the minister is dressed in papal robes and regalia, and is called 'Fah-zah' (Father). Therefore, when introduced to people, I am always called 'Fah-zah' or 'Shimpu-sama' (exalted Priest). I've known some people for years, and they still call me 'Fah-zah!' :-) Whatever! As long as I have some respect in their eyes, and (susequently) an opportunity to share the Gospel, I am blessed! Peace and joy to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
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4 | Why Rabbi? | Eph 5:33 | Emmaus | 66644 | ||
Charis, I was not offended. I enjoyed your post and found your discussion of the cultural implications of your own situation in Japan very interesting. I think you made it clear that your concern was not with any one particular group or title, but with the broader subject. I just thought I would address the topic from my particular prospective, since it is brought up to me on occassion, usually in a polite and sincere manner. Always good to hear from you. Emmaus |
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