THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1
1 Corinthians 11:2
Hebrews 13:7, 17

“That ye remember me
in all things …”

HOW TO REMEMBER YOUR LEADERS

While the Corinthian Church might be beset by problems, they seemed to retain a level of respect and fondness for the Apostle Paul. Though he was not present with them then, it was not a case of “out of sight, out of mind.” Thus, the Apostle Paul remarked in 1 Corinthians 11:2: “Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.”

How did the Corinthian Christians remember the Apostle? Not by mere words or lip service, but by taking heed and keeping the “ordinances” which he had delivered to them. These “ordinances” (paradoseis) refer to the apostolic teachings and tradition that Paul had taught them while he was in their midst. Thus, we learn that the way to remember our leaders is to remember their faithful teaching from God’s Word wherever we may be.

The same principle is taught by Paul in Hebrews 13:7: “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.” We remember our leaders by observing attentively (avatheōrountes) their godly conduct and following (mimeisthe) the Scriptural principles which they have taught us.

When we fail to honour and obey our leaders who are faithful in their duties, it not only grieves the hearts of the leaders as overseers of God’s flock but it is also most unprofitable for us (Heb 13:17). Such rebellion hurts our walk and fellowship with God. We will be most miserable in life and lose the joy of our salvation.

Thus, let us treasure those who truly labour faithfully in word and doctrine among us. When God’s Word is preached faithfully, let us receive the preached Word not as the words of men, but as the Word of God (1 Thess 2:13).

THOUGHT: Do I know my church leaders?
PRAYER: Father, may Thou grant Thy flock faithful leaders.