Should Christians Have Titles? A Biblical Look at Authority and Humility
Should Christians Have Titles? It’s a question many believers quietly wrestle with, especially when church leaders use labels like Pastor, Bishop, Prophet, or Apostle. Are these titles biblical, or have they drifted from God’s original design for leadership?
Here, we’ll examine what Scripture actually teaches about titles, authority, and humility. We’ll start in 1 Corinthians 4, then turn to the words of Jesus Himself.
Why the Question “Should Christians Have Titles?” Matters
Over the years, many Christian leaders have added titles in front of their names. These titles often communicate authority, rank, or spiritual importance.
However, the Bible challenges how we think about leadership. Instead of elevating status, Scripture consistently emphasizes humility, service, and faithfulness.
So, should Christians have titles at all? Let’s see what the Bible says.
The One Title Paul Embraces in 1 Corinthians 4
In 1 Corinthians 4:1, the apostle Paul gives us a surprising answer:
A person should think of us in this way: as servants of Christ and managers of the mysteries of God.
Paul mentions two roles, not honorific titles:
- Servants of Christ
- Managers (or stewards) of God’s mysteries
Notice what Paul does not say. He does not call himself a bishop, apostle-for-hire, or spiritual overseer in a way that elevates his status.
What Does “Servant” Really Mean?
The Greek word Paul uses for servant is hupēretēs.
It refers to under-rowers on a ship; the lowest level of slaves, rowing out of sight.
These servants:
- Worked in obscurity
- Received no recognition
- Had no authority of their own
Paul says, “Think of us that way.”
That is not a title that communicates importance. Instead, it communicates humility.
Why We Love Titles (and Why That’s a Problem)
Most people prefer titles that suggest significance:
- Doctor
- Bishop
- Prophet
- Overseer
These titles often imply spiritual superiority. They can subtly communicate, “I’m up here, and you’re down there.”
However, Scripture does not support that mindset.
What Jesus Said About Titles in Matthew 23
Jesus addressed this issue directly:
- “Don’t let anyone call you Rabbi.”
- “Don’t address anyone on earth as father.”
- “Don’t let anyone call you teacher.”
Why? Because titles can inflate pride and divide believers.
Jesus made His expectation clear:
“The greatest among you must be your servant.”
Those who exalt themselves will be humbled. Those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Titles Describe What You Do, Not Who You Are
This distinction matters.
You are not an evangelist by identity; evangelism is what you do.
You are not a minister by name; ministering is your function.
Your identity comes from Christ, not your role.
That’s why many leaders prefer being called simply by their name or “brother” or “sister.” It keeps the focus on humility rather than hierarchy.
The Second Biblical Role: Manager or Steward
Paul also describes himself as a manager of God’s mysteries.
A manager does not own anything. He simply stewards what belongs to someone else.
This mindset changes everything:
- The ministry belongs to God.
- The people belong to God.
- The platform belongs to God.
Faithfulness, not visibility, is what God values most.
Faithfulness Over Fruitfulness
Our culture celebrates numbers, influence, and growth. God looks at obedience.
Paul reminds us that:
- Large platforms do not equal spiritual success.
- Faithfulness to God’s assignment matters most.
God will judge our stewardship, not our popularity.
Why God’s Opinion Is the Only One That Matters
Paul makes a bold statement in 1 Corinthians 4:3–4:
“It matters very little to me how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority.”
He goes even further. Paul says he does not fully trust his own judgment either.
Only God can evaluate motives, intentions, and faithfulness accurately.
So, Should Christians Have Titles?
Yes, but not the ones we usually want.
According to Scripture, the only titles worth embracing are:
- Servant of Christ
- Steward of God’s work
Titles that elevate people above others should be approached with extreme caution.
The Christian life was never meant to be about spiritual rank. It was always about humble service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should Christians Have Titles like Pastor or Bishop?
Scripture does not forbid functional descriptions. However, titles should never create hierarchy, pride, or spiritual superiority.
Are modern-day apostles biblical?
The biblical role of apostle was unique and foundational. Scripture does not support the idea of modern apostles with equal authority.
Did Jesus forbid all titles?
Jesus warned against titles that elevate status and inflate pride. His focus was humility and service.
Is it wrong to call someone “Pastor”?
Not necessarily. Problems arise when titles replace humility or redefine identity.
What title should every Christian embrace?
The title Jesus emphasized most: servant.
Final Thoughts
The real question is not what people call us, but how we serve.
When humility leads, titles lose their power, and Christ gets the glory.