The other day, I had a chat with a minister of the gospel who bears the title of an apostle. I teased him, saying I hope to be an apostle someday, just like him. His response got me thinking: “Ah, forget the title. I just looked for something to scare people and make them respect me. That’s why I took the title of an apostle.”
Friend, don’t be a cloud without rain (Proverbs 25:14). Really, there is no entitlement in title. Title does not add anything to you. It actually exposes you, whether you realize it or not (Zechariah 3:1). Title identifies you before men and the devil. It gives men something to expect from you. But will they get what they expect (Acts 3:5)?
When you call someone a lawyer or doctor, you know what to expect. If we call someone an apostle, we should expect the signs of an apostle (2 Corinthians 12:12). Like the sons of Sceva, if you boast of a false gift or title, you might be endangering your life without knowing it (Acts 19:11-17).
Titles attract battles, but you would need mantles to deal with battles. It is better to pursue mantles than to pursue titles (2 Kings 2:8-15). With the right mantles, men will recognise and respect you. If you carry the right mantle, men will give you the title that they have identified with your mantle.
Anyone can call themselves whatever they like, but it will take some processes and sacrifices for you to get the right mantles (2 Kings 2:10, 3:11). Don’t be a cloud without rain (Jude 1:12). Just as we have quack doctors today, we also have quack ministers; those who bear titles without mantles.
When you carry what your generation needs, they will give you what they carry; honour, respect, resources, etc. (Galatians 2:9). Always remember this: it is better to be underrated than to be overrated (Proverbs 12:9). There is no entitlement in title. Don’t be a cloud without rain.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria