IBS Hebrews 13:17 (2-21-14)

Inductive Bible Study Method for Hebrews 13:17 (2-21-14)

“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.”

We are commanded to obey and submit to those who rule over us - both obey and submit mean to yield to. This is the laying aside of our pride in thinking we know best or thinking that we should be in charge, and acknowledging that God put them in that place for a reason. 

Even though it may look like we’re obeying on the outside, if in our minds we are unwilling then it’s not true obedience. Colossians 3:23-24 says “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” No matter what we’re doing, our hearts should be willing and joyful. 

Those who are in authority must give an account for how they used their power of influence. People in leadership have a much higher responsibility than those under authority - every single person is responsible for their deeds and actions, but the people that are influences are given more consequences. 

Matthew 18:6 says “But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” This is a very strong warning. Those who abuse their authority and use it for evil will have very severe consequences. 

We are to obey with joy and not grief. It is unprofitable for us to have an attitude or cause grief. If the person in authority is godly and is asking us to do something that glorifies God - why wouldn’t we want to do it? Also, why would we have a bad attitude about it and cause grief? 

I think a lot of the time - I do things half-heartedly or even with a bad attitude. I want to do everything as unto Christ - that means its not for the leader, its not for the people I’ll be serving and it’s not for myself. If I keep Christ as my focus during serving, I’ll have no issue whatsoever. I’m going to write “unto the Lord” on my wrist to remind me to not only have a good attitude, but also to remember that there’s no point in doing anything if it’s not for Christ.