I very much demur to the designation, “To the Reverend C. H. Spurgeon,” for no ‘reverence’ is due to me! Assuredly, ‘Reverend’ and ’sinner’ make a curious combination. And as I know I am the second, I repudiate the first.
To me, it is surprising that such a flattering title should have been invented, and more amazing still, that good men should be found who are angry if this title be not duly given to them.
The pure Word of God speaks plainly with regarding to the title of “Reverend” and there is only one true “Reverend” whom we must “Revere” with all “Reverence” to His Holy Name.
“It is the Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must REVERE.” Deut. 13:4
“…. so that you may learn to REVERE the Lord your God always.” Deut. 14:23
“…. REVERE this glorious and awesome name: the Lord your God.” Deut. 28:58
“…. REVERE Him, all you descendants of Israel!” Psalm 22:23
“Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world REVERE Him.” Psalm 33:8
“…. holy and REVEREND is His name.” Psalm 111:9
“I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will REVERE Him.” Eccles. 3:14
“Who should not REVERE You, O King of the nations? This is Your due.” Jeremiah 10:7
“Lord your God you must follow, and Him you must REVERE.” Deut. 13:4