This concern stems from a passage in the Bible—Matthew 23:9—where Jesus says:
“And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.” (Matthew 23:9)

At first glance, this might seem to directly contradict the Catholic practice of referring to the Pope as "Holy Father" and calling priests "Father". If Jesus prohibited calling anyone on earth "father," how can the Pope hold such a title? In this article, we will explore why the Pope is called "Holy Father," explain what this title means, and address whether there is any contradiction with the Bible.

Understanding the Biblical Passage: Matthew 23:9
Before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to properly understand the context of Matthew 23:9. In this passage, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees and scribes, the religious leaders of His time, who were known for their hypocrisy and love of titles. Let’s examine the surrounding verses:

• Matthew 23:8-10: “But you are not to be called Rabbi, for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ. The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

In this passage, Jesus is warning against the prideful abuse of titles. The religious leaders of the time were using titles like “Rabbi” and “Father” to elevate themselves and gain honor from others, rather than using those positions for humility and service to others. The focus of Jesus’ warning is on self-exaltation and the corruption of authority, not the actual use of the words "father" or "teacher."

Does This Mean Titles Like “Father” Are Prohibited?
No, it does not mean that titles like "Father" are inherently wrong. Jesus’ condemnation is aimed at the attitude behind the use of these titles. He is addressing the motivation of those who seek titles for the sake of prestige, honor, and power over others. Jesus emphasizes humility and service, pointing out that true leaders in the Kingdom of God are those who serve, not those who seek to be served.

The title “Father” in itself is not sinful; rather, it depends on how it is used. In fact, Jesus Himself refers to God as "Father" throughout the Gospels. For example, in Matthew 6:9, during the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus instructs His followers to pray:
“Our Father who art in heaven…”

Clearly, Jesus does not intend to forbid the use of the word "father" in every context. Instead, He is instructing His followers to avoid self-glorification and to recognize that all true authority comes from God.

The Role of the Pope as “Holy Father”
Now that we understand the biblical context, let’s explore why the Pope is called "Holy Father." This title has a deep spiritual and theological significance that aligns with the broader teachings of the Church and the Bible.

1. The Pope’s Spiritual Fatherhood
The title “Holy Father” acknowledges the spiritual fatherhood of the Pope. In the Catholic tradition, the Pope is seen as the spiritual leader of the worldwide Church and the successor of Saint Peter, who was appointed by Jesus to be the leader of His followers on earth. In Matthew 16:18-19, Jesus tells Peter:

“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

Catholics believe that Saint Peter was the first Pope and that his role as the leader of the apostles is continued by each successive Pope. The Pope’s role as Vicar of Christ (representative of Christ on earth) is deeply rooted in this understanding of spiritual fatherhood. The Pope is called to provide spiritual care, guidance, and pastoral leadership to the Catholic Church, much like a father would care for and guide his children.

The Pope’s authority is not a claim to divine power, but a role of service. “Holy Father” reflects the sacred responsibility the Pope has to care for the spiritual well-being of the Church. He is called to protect the faith, ensure its teachings remain true to the Gospel, and guide the faithful toward holiness.

2. The Bible’s Use of Spiritual Fatherhood
The idea of spiritual fatherhood is not foreign to the Bible. In fact, many biblical figures, including the Apostle Paul, referred to themselves as spiritual fathers to the early Christian communities.
• 1 Corinthians 4:15:
“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.”
• 1 Thessalonians 2:11:
“For you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.”

Here, Paul speaks of his fatherly role in the lives of the early Christians. He emphasizes his spiritual responsibility in guiding them toward Christ, not as a claim to divine authority, but as one who nurtures and teaches the faithful.

This scriptural precedent helps us understand why the Pope is referred to as "Father." The Pope, as the successor of Saint Peter, inherits this role of spiritual fatherhood, not in a way that competes with God’s authority, but in a way that reflects the Pope’s responsibility to lead and care for God’s people.

3. The Pope’s Role as Vicar of Christ
In Catholic teaching, the Pope is called the Vicar of Christ, meaning he serves as Christ’s representative on earth. The title "Holy Father" underscores this unique role in the Church. As the Vicar of Christ, the Pope has the responsibility to teach, govern, and sanctify the faithful. He does not claim divine power, but rather acts as a servant-leader, guiding the Church according to the will of God.

The Pope’s spiritual fatherhood is an expression of his service to the Church. Just as a father provides for his family and protects his children, the Pope provides for the Church’s spiritual needs and defends its teachings. In this sense, the title "Holy Father" reflects the Pope’s role in fostering the spiritual life of the Catholic community, helping individuals grow in faith and holiness.

Is There a Contradiction with the Bible?
No, there is no contradiction between the biblical passage in Matthew 23:9 and the title of "Holy Father" for the Pope. The command in Matthew 23 is not a universal prohibition against using the word "father" in all contexts, but rather a caution against using titles for self-glorification and prideful authority. Jesus is urging humility, not forbidding the use of terms of respect.

The Pope is called "Holy Father" because of his spiritual leadership, not because he is being placed on par with God. In fact, the title acknowledges his role as a servant-leader, tasked with guiding the Catholic Church in faith and holiness. The Bible supports the concept of spiritual fatherhood, as seen in the teachings of both Jesus and Paul. The Pope’s fatherhood is a reflection of his role in caring for the spiritual welfare of the Church, in a way that mirrors the love, care, and guidance a father provides to his children.

In summary, the title "Holy Father" for the Pope is rooted in the biblical concept of spiritual fatherhood and reflects the Pope’s role as a servant-leader, following in the footsteps of Saint Peter and the Apostles.

There is no contradiction with Matthew 23:9, which warns against prideful use of titles. Rather, the Pope’s fatherhood is a spiritual responsibility that acknowledges his unique role in guiding the Catholic Church in faith and holiness. Calling the Pope "Holy Father" is consistent with both Catholic theology and the broader teachings of the Bible.