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Matthew 23:5-11 – Clerical Collars?
Clerical Collars?
A lot of symbolism is found in the clerical collar priests and pastors wear.
[ ] Black reminds them they are sinners.
[ ] The small white center patch stands for the purity of speech in speaking for God.
[ ] Some even connect it to a slave’s collar in that they are slaves of God. And there’s more symbolism if you’re interested.
However, why don’t I wear one?
[ ] All those reminders listed above apply equally to all Christians, not just clergy.
[ ] Biblically speaking there are no clergy. But if we were to use the term it would refer to all who receive God’s inheritance (Acts 26:18). Our English word clergy comes from “kleros”. It is used in 1 Peter 5:3 – “nor yet as lording it over those allotted (kleros) to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock” (NASB). Did you notice who is the “kleros” or clergy? Here it is the entire church!
[ ] Jesus condemned special clothing (and titles) for religious so-called leaders: Matthew 23:5-11: “They do everything to be observed by others: They enlarge their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. They love the place of honor at banquets, the front seats in the synagogues, greetings in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by people. “But as for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi,’ because you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. Do not call anyone on earth your father, because you have one Father, who is in heaven. And do not be called masters either, because you have one Master, the Messiah. The greatest among you will be your servant” (HCSB).
Christian’s don’t need special clothing to set them apart, because we have clothed ourselves with Christ – HCSB Galatians 3:27: “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ like a garment.”
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