Remember and Obey Leaders

The title to my writing this morning is one that when taken out of context can be misleading and give a false sense of power.

“¹⁷Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.” – Hebrews 13:17 (ESV)

I read this verse alone and without context and what I see is an opportunity for “leaders” to announce they should be followed for they have what is best in mind for all. This is a slippery slope in the world as I see those with ill intent taking advantage of those that are not informed. In reading the above verse, one has to also consider verse 7.

“⁷Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” – Hebrews 13:7 (ESV)

Now that I have both of the verses together, it is clear to me that “leaders” are to be remembered and obeyed for their work and ideas that are in accordance with God and His glory. Those that are in the world telling us that we should listen to them and that they are all knowing and the authority should not be taken at their word. It is my responsibility to review their character and their way of life in accordance with God and His glory.

“Leaders” have a responsibility to those under them to inspire based on their character, not their words. I should look to those in authority and examine them against the example of Christ. Without this example, I have to be very careful in obeying them so as not to be led astray from God and His glory. I have to remember the character of the leaders and obey and submit to them when that character is in the example of Christ.

What are you looking for in leaders? Are you looking to them without consideration as to their character against the example of Christ? What if we were to remember them according to the example of Christ and when they measure up, obey and submit to them?