16. What is the meaning of the title “Rabbi,” and why was it not to be applied to any of Jesus’ disciples?

¹⁶ Just three days before his death, Jesus warned his disciples against imitating the scribes and Pharisees in their love of prominence. These men were often called “Rabbi” by others, a word meaning, literally, “great one.” It was “a term for someone who occupies a high and respected position. . . . The one called Rabbi is recognized thereby to be higher in rank than the speaker.” (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Vol. VI, page 961) Jesus, however, told his disciples: “Do not be called Rabbi; for One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers. . . .

(Matt. 23:6-12, New American Standard Bible)