In what ways can we respect authority while discerning their actions? Setting the Scene “Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to His disciples:” (Matthew 23:1) Jesus is about to warn His listeners about leaders who teach the right things yet live the wrong way. His words give a timeless pattern: honor the office, test the example. Respecting God-Established Authority • Authority exists because God ordains it (Romans 13:1). • Even imperfect leaders serve a purpose—maintaining order, restraining sin, pointing to our need for the perfect King. • By showing respect, we ultimately honor the God who allowed that authority to stand (1 Peter 2:13-14). • Practically: – Use courteous speech, even in disagreement. – Pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2). – Obey laws and directives that do not contradict Scripture. Discerning Their Actions • Jesus immediately distinguishes between what leaders say and what they do (Matthew 23:3). • Scripture, not personality, is the measuring stick (Acts 17:11). • Red flags to note: – Teaching that departs from the clear words of Scripture. – A lifestyle that contradicts the commands they give others. – Leadership that seeks self-exaltation over service (Matthew 23:5-12). • When teaching aligns with God’s Word, embrace it; when behavior departs, refuse to imitate it. Following Scripture over Man • If a command from authority directly opposes God’s Word, “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). • Biblical examples: – Daniel continued to pray despite a royal edict (Daniel 6). – The Hebrew midwives spared infants despite Pharaoh’s orders (Exodus 1:17). • In each case, respect remained—yet ultimate allegiance stayed with God. Practical Takeaways Today • Listen carefully: separate message from messenger. • Check everything against Scripture; assume it is true and literal. • Show honor in tone, words, and behavior, even when refusing a sinful directive. • Stay humble; the same standard you apply to leaders will apply to you (James 3:1). • Seek godly counsel when unsure—Scripture-saturated community sharpens discernment (Proverbs 11:14). |
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