Trust and integrity are precious and fragile, like eggs; once broken, they are difficult to restore. Proverbs 11:3 (NIV) says, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity." Faith serves as a bridge between the physical and the spiritual, creating a sacred connection that is often contested. As Ephesians 6:10-12 (NIV) reminds us, our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil.
Each individual must guard this connection, for there are many who seek to influence and control it. When someone's spiritual connection is compromised, it can lead to complete domination over them. Humans are inherently social beings, yearning for acceptance and belonging, as seen in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV): "Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor." Vulnerability in faith and the need to belong make individuals susceptible to manipulation, particularly in areas like religion, politics, business, and relationships.
In some Evangelical Christian practices, the institution of speaking in tongues and giving testimonies to witness God's miracles can be exploited by unscrupulous pastors. These leaders use these practices to compromise the integrity of the faithful's relationship with God, reinforcing cult-like devotion through the threat of rejection. Matthew 7:15 (NIV) warns, "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves."
If you feel pressured to speak in tongues without understanding or interpretation, or if you are urged to testify to unverifiable miracles and are required to honor your pastor excessively by calling him "Daddy" or "Father," you may be in a cult. Jesus said in Matthew 23:9 (NIV), "And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven."
The Bible instructs children to honor their parents with a promise of long life, as stated in Ephesians 6:1-3 (NIV): "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother'—which is the first commandment with a promise—'so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'" Simultaneously, fathers are advised to nurture their children without inciting anger, as seen in Ephesians 6:4 (NIV): "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord."
Pastors are meant to shepherd and guide the congregation, not to own them or act as their earthly fathers. The congregation belongs to God, as noted in 1 Peter 5:2-3 (NIV): "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."
The practice of calling a pastor "father" and the concept of a congregation belonging to a pastor can vary significantly based on theological and denominational perspectives. Here are some key points to consider from different traditions:

Biblical Perspective:
1. New Testament Teachings:
- Jesus’ Teaching: In Matthew 23:9, Jesus says, “And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.” Some interpret this as a directive to avoid titles that elevate church leaders above others.
- Paul’s Writing: The Apostle Paul, however, uses paternal language. For example, in 1 Corinthians 4:15, he says, “For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel.” This suggests a more relational, spiritual fatherhood.
Theological and Denominational Perspectives:
1. Catholic Tradition:
- Refers to priests as "Father," recognizing their role in guiding the spiritual life of the congregation. This is seen as a term of respect and spiritual fatherhood, drawing from Scriptures and Tradition.
2. Orthodox Tradition:
- Similar to Catholics, Orthodox Christians call their priests "Father." The priest is seen as a spiritual father responsible for the care of his congregation's souls.
3. Protestant Traditions:
- Evangelical and Reformed: Many Protestant denominations avoid the term "Father," preferring titles like "Pastor" or "Reverend" to maintain a focus on egalitarian spiritual leadership. The role of a pastor is typically seen as a shepherd or teacher rather than a father figure.
- Anglican/Episcopal: Some use “Father” for priests, especially in High Church traditions, while others prefer less hierarchical titles.
Congregational Ownership:
1. Biblical Insight:
- The New Testament emphasizes that the church, or congregation, belongs to Christ. Ephesians 1:22-23 states, “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.”