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Webster's dictionary defines the word, "reverend," as
a title of respect for a clergyman. It comes from the idea of giving
"reverence," which means "to regard with deep love and respect." Calling a minister "reverend" did not originate in
scripture. The term became accepted sometime in the seventeenth century in
England as a scriptural show of respect toward men of God. "And we urge you,
brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the
Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their
work's sake..." (1 Thes. 5:12-13). It's obvious that the term was never actually intended
to become a title, but rather, was an expression used by Christians to
identify and denote respect and esteem toward their minister. To say, "The
Reverend John Smith," was like saying, "The deeply loved and respected man
of God, John Smith." In later years, "reverend" began to lose its original
distinction and evolved into a secular "title" of etiquette, used as a
prefix in front of a clergyman's name to indicate his ministerial vocation.
Some ministers don't wish to be identified by this term and may prefer to be
addressed as "pastor" or "brother." Another tradition associated with ministers, the so-called clerical collar, came from the standard style of a gentleman's dress in Europe in the middle ages. As styles changed, clergymen were slow to follow, and eventually the style became identified with formal clergy attire. Most evangelical ministers do not ascribe to the tradition of the clerical collar.
This article is from the book, What People Ask About the Church, authored and copyrighted © by Dr. Dale A. Robbins, 1990-2015, and is a publication of Victorious Publications, Grass Valley, CA - Nashville, TN. Unless otherwise stated, all scripture references were taken from The New King James Bible, © Thomas Nelson Inc., 1982. You may download this article for personal use as long as you retain credit to the author. Obtain permission before reproducing copies for any reason, by filling out our simple use permission form. Many of our writings are also available as free pdf tri-fold pamphlets, which can be downloaded for reproduction from our Online Catalog. For media reproduction rights, or to obtain quantities of this title in other formats, email us. A newer revised version of this book is available from Amazon. If you have appreciated these online materials, help us reach the world with the Gospel by considering a monthly or one-time tax-deductable donation.
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