13:17 What does it mean exactly that Christians are to obey those that have the rule over them?
13:17 What does it mean exactly that Christians are to obey those that have the rule over them?
The writer here is exhorting believers to maintain a yielding disposition and remain open to the persuasion of church leaders who lead and guide them into Godliness (CP V7; 1Th 5:12-13). Leaders are accountable to God for believers' spiritual well-being (CP Ac 20:28; 1Cor 4:1-2).
It is to their advantage that believers co-operate with their leaders. It makes the leader's job a joy, not a burden. This does not imply blind, unquestioning obedience to everything leaders say.
Believers' obedience and faithfulness must always be on the basis that leaders remain faithful and loyal to God, to scripture, and to God's purpose for the church.
Leaders are not autocratic rulers to Lord it over God's people, but servants of the church on behalf of Christ (CP Jer 23:1-2, 28-31; Eze 34:1-10 with Mt 23:8-12; Mk 9:35; 10:42-45; Lu 22:24-27; 1Pe 5:1-4).
Believers are not to passively accept every teaching in the church at face value, regardless of who teaches it. It can only be accepted in the light of scripture (CP 1Th 5:21 with Ac 17:10-11; 2Pe 1:16-19; 1Jn 4:1).
See also comments on 1Th 5:12-13; He 13:8.
These Studies by Br Val Boyle may be downloaded and freely distributed but not sold for profit.