Praying for our Leaders

Welcome brothers and sisters!

As we near the end of Hebrews, we encourage you to watch and share our latest video as Pastor Scott took us through the final exhortations in Hebrews 13:7-19.  Let us join together always, praying for one another, fellowship with one another and above all...love the Lord our God together in spirit and truth in our worship.  Below is a review of the section we covered, don't forget to check all things yourself like the noble Bereans, according to the scriptures.

In Hebrews 13:7-19, we can find three ways to honor our spiritual leaders:

1. Remember them and imitate their faith (v. 7)

The author tells the readers to remember those who were their leaders, who spoke to them the word of God, and who have died in the faith. He says to consider the outcome of their way of life, and to imitate their faith.

This means that we should not forget the legacy of those who have gone before us, who have faithfully preached and lived the gospel, and who have finished their race with joy. We should learn from their teachings, their testimonies, and their trials, and follow their example of trusting God in all circumstances.

Some of the spiritual leaders that we can remember and imitate are the apostles, the martyrs, the reformers, the missionaries, and the faithful pastors and teachers in our own churches and communities. We can also honor the memory of our departed loved ones who have influenced us spiritually.

2. Obey them and submit to them (v. 17)

The author tells the readers to obey their current leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over their souls, as those who will have to give an account. He says to let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to them.

This means that we should respect and follow the guidance of those who are appointed by God to shepherd and oversee us spiritually. We should listen to their teaching, heed their counsel, and support their ministry. We should also pray for them, encourage them, and help them in their work.

We should not make their task harder by being rebellious, stubborn, or indifferent. We should not criticize them unfairly, undermine their authority, or ignore their warnings. We should remember that they are accountable to God for how they care for us, and that we are accountable to God for how we respond to them.

3. Pray for them and join them in their service (v. 18-19)

The author tells the readers to pray for him and his fellow workers, for they are sure that they have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things. He asks them to pray earnestly that he may be restored to them soon.

This means that we should intercede for our spiritual leaders, for they face many challenges and dangers in their service to God and His people. We should pray for their protection, their provision, their wisdom, their holiness, and their effectiveness. We should also pray for their personal and family needs, their health, their joy, and their peace.

We should not only pray for them, but also join them in their service. We should cooperate with them in advancing the gospel, in edifying the church, and in glorifying God. We should share their burdens, their joys, and their hopes.  Until we meet again, lets go serve our King!

FRF Family