(Gk. rabbi) Mark 9:5, “Peter responded and said to Jesus, “RABBI (Master), it is good for us to be here; let us make three [sacred] tents—one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” (AMP) Strong’s #4461

In New Testament times, ‘rabbi’ was a respectful title for a teacher well versed in the Mosaic Law.

The title, which derives from a Hebrew word meaning ‘great,’ is often translated ‘master.’

‘Rabboni,’ an Aramaic form of this word, expresses affectionate respect for a teacher (John 20:16, “Jesus said to her, Mary! Turning around she said to Him in Hebrew, RABBONI!—which means Teacher or Master.” AMPC).

Both the disciples and the teachers of the law honored Jesus with this title. But Jesus warned His disciples not to covet such a title for themselves, for there is only one true teacher, Christ Himself (Matthew 23:6-10, “And they take pleasure in and [thus] love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues, And to be greeted with honor in the marketplaces and to have people call them RABBI. But you are not to be called RABBI (teacher), for you have one Teacher and you are all brothers. And do not call anyone [in the church] on earth father, for you have one Father, Who is in heaven. And you must not be called masters (leaders), for you have one Master (Leader), the Christ.” AMPC)

MAIN INGREDIENT: Today, Be a Disciple Who Continues to Sit at the Feet of Your Rabbi Jesus. He is Still Your Great Master Teacher, Learn Well!

Mark 10:51, “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “My RABBI,” the blind man said, “I want to see!” (NLT)

Mark 11:21, “Peter remembered what Jesus had said to the tree on the previous day and exclaimed, “Look, RABBI! The fig tree you cursed has withered and died!” (NLT)

Mark 14:45, “As soon as they arrived, Judas walked up to Jesus. “RABBI!” he exclaimed, and gave him the kiss.” (NLT)

John 1:38, “But Jesus turned, and as He saw them following Him, He said to them, What are you looking for? [And what is it you wish?] And they answered Him, RABBI—which translated is Teacher—where are You staying?” (AMPC)

Acts 22:1-3, “My dear brothers and fathers, listen carefully to what I have to say before you jump to conclusions about me.” When they heard him speaking Hebrew, they grew even quieter. No one wanted to miss a word of this. He continued, “I am a good Jew, born in Tarsus in the province of Cilicia, but educated here in Jerusalem under the exacting eye of RABBI Gamaliel, thoroughly instructed in our religious traditions. And I’ve always been passionately on God’s side, just as you are right now.” (MSG)

Enjoy the read and feel free to enter your email address to follow the bible cafe’s chef’s special of the day! Bon Appétit (‘Good Appetite, Enjoy Your Meal’)!

Love, Chef Shermaine