Positions and Titles of Servants of God

The use of titles for ministers and servants of God has been a long-standing tradition in many Christian communities. Titles such as pastor, bishop, apostle, reverend, or evangelist often reflect roles or functions within the church. However, the Bible offers guidance on the use of positions and titles, emphasizing humility, service, and the glorification of God rather than self-promotion. This article explores the biblical perspectives on the positions and titles of servants of God.

1. Biblical Titles for Servants of God

a. Commonly Used Titles in Scripture

The Bible provides several titles for those who serve God, often linked to their responsibilities:

• Apostles: Sent ones commissioned by Christ to establish the church.
  • Luke 6:13: “When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.”
  • Apostles were foundational leaders, chosen directly by Jesus.
• Prophets: Messengers of God’s word and will.
  • Ephesians 4:11: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers.”
  • Prophets often brought God’s message to guide, warn, or encourage His people.
• Evangelists: Those who spread the gospel message.
  • 2 Timothy 4:5: Paul instructs Timothy, “Do the work of an evangelist.”
• Pastors and Teachers: Shepherds who care for and instruct God’s flock.
  • 1 Peter 5:2-3: “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them… being examples to the flock.”
• Bishops/Overseers: Leaders responsible for overseeing the church’s spiritual and organizational health.
  • 1 Timothy 3:1-2: “If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task.”
• Deacons: Servants who assist in practical and spiritual needs.
  • Acts 6:1-6: The early church appointed deacons to manage resources and serve the community.

b. Servants and Disciples

The Bible frequently uses the term “servant” to describe those who serve God:

• Romans 1:1: Paul calls himself a “servant of Christ Jesus.”
• Matthew 20:26-28: Jesus teaches, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant… just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.”

2. The Purpose of Titles in Ministry

a. Titles Indicate Roles and Responsibilities

Titles such as “pastor,” “evangelist,” or “apostle” reflect specific callings and responsibilities within the body of Christ. They help clarify roles and enable the church to function effectively as described in 1 Corinthians 12:28, which lists apostles, prophets, and teachers as part of God’s design for the church.

b. Titles Should Reflect Service, Not Status

The Bible warns against using titles to elevate oneself over others:

• Matthew 23:8-12: Jesus warns, “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers… The greatest among you will be your servant.”
  • Titles should reflect a heart of service rather than a desire for recognition or authority.

3. Biblical Warnings About Misusing Titles

a. Avoiding Pride and Self-Promotion

• 3 John 1:9-10: Diotrephes is rebuked for loving to be first and refusing to welcome others.
• James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

b. Focus on Christ’s Lordship

• Colossians 1:18: “And he is the head of the body, the church.”
  • Christ is the ultimate authority in the church, and all roles and titles must point to Him.

4. Modern Application of Biblical Principles

a. Using Titles Wisely

• Titles can provide clarity and structure but should not overshadow the mission of glorifying God.
• Ministers should avoid titles that create unnecessary hierarchy or division within the body of Christ.

b. Emphasizing Servanthood Over Status

• The most important title in God’s kingdom is “servant.”
  • Mark 10:45: Jesus, the ultimate example, “did not come to be served, but to serve.”

c. Encouraging Humility and Unity

• Titles should foster unity and collaboration rather than competition or pride.
• Ephesians 4:11-13: Ministry roles are designed “to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”

5. Conclusion

The Bible acknowledges the use of titles for servants of God, but it places greater emphasis on the heart and purpose behind those titles. Ministry titles are meant to describe roles, responsibilities, and callings within the church, always pointing back to Christ’s lordship. Servants of God are called to embody humility, prioritize service, and glorify God in all they do. In this way, titles can serve as tools for ministry rather than distractions from the ultimate mission of advancing God’s kingdom.