Pastor Pete and the Un-Named Sheep

It may be me, it normally is, but have you noticed how often ministers are referred to as Pastor this, that or the other? I've seen it increasingly on Facebook, in articles in magazines, on various websites and elsewhere, church leaders referring to themselves or by others as Pastor. Why do they want to be called Pastor Pete? (just using this name for ease, not referring to anyone specifically!) Is it not enough to be called simply 'Pete' or is it important to use a title?

Now you could argue that it doesn't really matter what you call the pastor, calling him (or her) Pastor Pete is just a polite, respectful and friendly way of referring to them. It could be seen as a way of honouring the church leader and demonstrating your commitment to them. Unfortunately I have to disagree, it seems to me that there are a number of reasons why saying 'Pastor Pete' is a bad idea

1. Pastor is a gift given to the church and not a position, see Ephesians chapter four. The various ministries in the New Testament are always seen as a function not as a title. 

2. No one in the New Testament is called Pastor so and so. Paul referred to himself as either an apostle or servant of Christ Jesus, he is never given a title or takes one for himself

[Ro 1:1] Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God

[1Co 1:1] Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes

[2Co 1:1] Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother

[Ga 1:1] Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ

[Ep 1:1] Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God

[Phl 1:1] Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus

3. There seems to be specific warnings by Jesus against calling leaders by their titles. Matthew 23 says [8] “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,' for you have only one Master and you are all brothers. [9] And do not call anyone on earth ‘Father,' for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. [10] Nor are you to be called ‘teacher,' for you have one Teacher, the Christ. Whilst 'pastor' is not mentioned, is it not reasonably to apply this instruction to pastor as well as teacher or rabbi? The NIV Study Bible says these verses are a warning 'against seeking titles of honor to foster pride.' The implication being that it is not the seeking of titles per se that is wrong but seeking titles to foster pride. I just wonder whether it would be better to stay far away from titles in the church family altogether!

4. Other sheep in God's flock are not normally named, we never call anyone Organist Oliver, Coffee Maker Colin or Sunday School Teacher Sue. Evangelist Edith or Teacher Ted makes as much sence as Pastor Pete but know one does that, I wonder why?

The title of this blog is 'Pastor Pete and the un-named sheep.'I am not seeking to be critical of those who do use titles, I suppose I am simply seeking to understand why people do this and put forward a different view.