A Way to Please God Is to Embrace Authority

Speaker: Rob BerrethScripture: Hebrews 13:7-19Episode Overview:In this sermon from Hebrews 13:7–19, we explore how God calls His people to relate to spiritual authority within the local church. Scripture paints a vision of leadership rooted in faithful teaching, Christlike character, and vigilant care for souls. At the same time, believers are invited to remember, imitate, obey, and pray for those who shepherd them. This passage offers a deeply biblical, countercultural picture of joyful leadership and joyful followership—one that flows from the grace and supremacy of Christ. Join us as we walk through three movements in the text: remembering and imitating godly pastors, obeying and yielding to spiritual leadership, and praying earnestly for those entrusted with watching over the church.Key Highlights:1. Remember and Imitate Your Pastors (Heb 13:7)• Godly leaders are marked first by speaking the Word of God faithfully.• Their way of life confirms the truth they teach as they strive to model mature Christian character.• Believers are called to consider and continually reflect on the outcome of their leaders’ lives and to imitate their faith—not because leaders are perfect, but because they point to Christ.• Imitation is not blind allegiance; Christ alone is the One we follow.2. Obey and Submit to Your Leaders (Heb 13:17)• The command to obey is tied to being persuaded by biblical teaching, not to unquestioning compliance.• Submission describes a posture of willing cooperation rather than stubborn resistance.• Scripture provides limits to pastoral authority; leaders may only require what God Himself commands.• Healthy church life happens when pastors joyfully lead and believers joyfully respond.3. Pray Earnestly for Your Leaders (Heb 13:18–19)• Pastors “keep watch over souls” and will “give an account”—a weighty and joyful responsibility.• The church’s prayers safeguard leaders from drifting into false teaching, strengthen their character, and support them in the demanding work of shepherding.• A praying church becomes a spiritually powerful church.Call to Action:This week, intentionally pray for the leaders God has placed in your life—that they would remain faithful to Scripture, walk with integrity, and lead with joy. At the same time, examine your own posture toward authority: ask the Lord to cultivate a heart that is humble, teachable, and eager to follow Him through the shepherds He has provided. Seek ways to encourage your spiritual leaders, and allow their example to spur you toward deeper faithfulness in your own walk with Christ.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org