rule over you
Hebrews 13:7
13:7 rule over you. Note the three admonitions in this chapter concerning “them that have the rule over you:” (1) “remember” them, in gratitude and prayer; (2) “obey them” (Hebrews 13:17), for they have been divinely called for teaching and leadership, as more mature in the faith; (3) “salute all them” (Hebrews 13:24) in the sense of showing respect and appreciation. Those who exercise such “rule,” if they are faithful to their calling, do not rule arbitrarily, “as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock” (I Peter 5:3). Note that they “have spoken unto you the word of God,” are men whose “faith” deserves following, and are men who “watch for your souls” (Hebrews 13:17). Such faithful rulers also deserve adequate financial support by those for whom they “must give account” (Hebrews 13:17; see I Timothy 5:17-18).