We have been exploring the use of the term Today in the book of Hebrews. This is the 7th and final use of the term by the author. At the very least, the ideal of Today is a minor theme in Hebrews. In this passage, the theme Today is linked to ministers and Christian leaders.
Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. – Hebrews 13.7-8, NRSV
These two verses are paired, as the second one builds on the first one.
Hebrews 13.7
We are actually commanded to honor those who preach the Word as we would honor the Lord (verse 7). In other words, we know that humans are imperfect. However, in some mysterious way, we represent Christ to each other.
Ministers & Christian Leaders
This does not mean that we are above discipline at any time. However, we can be bearers of the Word of God because the Word carries its own authority.
Do we respect our ministers Today?
The author of Hebrews would probably not go into an in-depth conversation with us about this minister who has fallen, or that one. Such conversations often become highly critical, not only of ministers, but also of our Lord’s church.
From this passage, we can guess that the author of Hebrews would call us back to the point.
Do you honor your ministers, the ones God has given to you?
Hebrews 13.8
In a way Jesus is compared and contrasted to those who are leaders (verse 8).
First, Jesus is compared to ministers because these two verses probably form a complete thought. In other words, we respect our leaders because Christ works with them yesterday, today, and in the future. So there is a sense that Jesus continually oversees the leadership of the Church.
If verse 8 supports verse 7, then ministers have their position because of Christ. It makes sense then that ministers draw the value of their ministerial role from Christ. Our worth is not in ourselves, or in our success, but in Him . . . and that is humbling.
Secondly, there is a contrast. Christian ministers and leaders change from time to time. Ministers move to new charges, or retire, or pass away, etc. However, Christ remains constant as the ultimate leader of the church.
No matter who was at the helm, who is at the helm, or who will be at the helm of the ship, Christ is constant. In fact, He is charting the course. We seem to have this assurance from the two verses, when we consider them together.
To Consider:
There is a sense of peace that we can glean from the constancy of Christ. He was there yesterday and He’ll be there tomorrow, not only for us personally but also for His Bride. That is part of the assurance that Christ brings to His church Today . . .
notes:
Jared Ingle is a Christian family man, an online professor, a supervised marriage and family therapist, and a minister. To get more acquainted with him or the services he offers CLICK HERE
more titles in this series, Today in Hebrews:
an opportunity to enter His rest
works consulted
The following reference works have greatly influenced this study. If you take time to follow the links and purchase any of them on audio, Kindle, or in print, I will receive some remuneration. If you would like to connect with me about great Christian reads, I would be happy to consult with you about building your library.
Arthur G. Clarke, Analytical Studies in the Psalms (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 1979).
John Chrysostom, On the Epistle to the Hebrews.
Cyril of Jerusalem, Catechetical Lectures.
Andrew Murray, The Holiest of All: An Exposition of the Epistle to the Hebrews (Old Tappan, NJ: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1894).
Thomas C. Oden, Classic Christianity: A Systematic Theology(New York, NY: HarperCollins, 1992).
Charles F. Pfeiffer and Everett F. Harrison, ed., Wycliffe Bible Commentary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1962).
Theodore of Mopsuestia, Commentary on Hebrews.
John Wesley, Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament (London: Wesleyan-Methodist Book-Room).
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