Have regard for those . . . presiding over you in the Lord and admonishing you.—1 Thess. 5:12.
At Hebrews 13:7, 17, the apostle Paul gives four reasons why we should be obedient and submissive to Christian overseers. The first is that they “have spoken the word of God” to us. Recall that the “gifts in men” that Jesus gives to the congregation are for “the readjustment of the holy ones.” (Eph. 4:8, 11, 12) A second reason is that “they are keeping watch over [our] souls.” If they detect anything in our attitude or behavior that might endanger our spirituality, they are quick to give us needed counsel with a view to our readjustment. (Gal. 6:1) A third reason is that they keep watch over us “as those who will render an account.” Jehovah holds the appointed overseers accountable for the way they treat his flock, which should be “with tenderness.” (Acts 20:28, 29) The fourth reason is “that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would be damaging to you.” w07 4/1 2:10-14
