2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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HONOURING AUTHORITY IS HONOURING GOD
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Hebrews 13:7-17
Titus 2:11-15
“These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke
with all authority. Let no man despise thee.”
HONOURING AUTHORITY IS HONOURING GOD
The writer in winding up this epistle outlined the qualities of a service that pleased God. He spoke of His representatives who preached His words and led the church. He stressed the need of holding to true doctrines. He also looked into the sacrificial work of Christ. This leads to offering true worship to God.
The writer understood the importance of service that pleased God. He called on the Hebrew Christians to remember them that had the rule over the church and who had preached to them the Word of God. The one who had the rule was both a leader and a teacher of the words of God, and so are pastors today. Their authority deserves honour, just as God’s authority deserves honour. These leaders are also to be examples to believers. Thus the writer exhorted his readers to follow their leaders’ faith, “considering the end of their conversation” (Heb 13:7). Believers are to listen, obey and follow.
There are many who have the designation “pastor” in front of their names or some other title that is supposed to bestow on them the dignity worthy of the office of a man of God. However, their works and way of life speak the contrary. They are destitute of true doctrines because of their unbelief. This opens the floodgates for more departures from the faith. They are not pastors but false prophets. They do not deserve any honour worthy of a true servant of God.
On the other hand, servants who have proven their worth ought to be accorded that respect. In addition, the church must look after their welfare and show an appreciation of what they are doing, as the writer thus exhorted. This is a service that pleases God. Jesus is always the same, yesterday, today and for ever. This means that His truth always stands.
THOUGHT: Christians must not be passive believers. They must be active in learning and teaching God’s Word.
PRAYER: Father, help me to submit to Thy lawful authority.