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Hebrews 13:17
Verse
Context
Sacrifice, Obedience, and Prayer
16And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.17Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Obey them that have the rule over you - Obey your leaders, τοις ἡγουμενοις. He is not fit to rule who is not capable of guiding. See on Heb 13:7, (note). In the former verse the apostle exhorts them to remember those who had been their leaders, and to imitate their faith; in this he exhorts them to obey the leaders they now had, and to submit to their authority in all matters of doctrine and discipline, on the ground that they watched for their souls, and should have to give an account of their conduct to God. If this conduct were improper, they must give in their report before the great tribunal with grief; but in it must be given: if holy and pure, they would give it in with joy. It is an awful consideration that many pastors, who had loved their flocks as their own souls, shall be obliged to accuse them before God for either having rejected or neglected the great salvation.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Obey them that have the rule over you--(Compare Heb 13:7, Heb 13:24). This threefold mention of the rulers is peculiar to this Epistle. In other Epistles Paul includes the rulers in his exhortations. But here the address is limited to the general body of the Church, in contrast to the rulers to whom they are charged to yield reverent submission. Now this is just what might be expected when the apostle of the Gentiles was writing to the Palestine Christians, among whom James and the eleven apostles had exercised a more immediate authority. It was important he should not seem to set himself in opposition to their guides, but rather strengthen their hands; he claims no authority directly or indirectly over these rulers themselves [BIRKS]. "Remember" your deceased rulers (Heb 13:7). "Obey" your living rulers; nay, more, not only obey in cases where no sacrifice of self is required, and where you are persuaded they are right (so the Greek, for "obey"), but "submit yourselves" as a matter of dutiful yielding, when your judgment and natural will incline you in an opposite direction. they--on their part; so the Greek. As they do their part, so do you yours. So Paul exhorts, Th1 5:12-13. watch--"are vigilant" (Greek). for--Greek, "in behalf of." must give account--The strongest stimulus to watchfulness (Mar 13:34-37). CHRYSOSTOM was deeply struck with these words, as he tells us [On the Priesthood, 6], "The fear of this threat continually agitates my soul." do it--"watch for your soul's eternal salvation." It is a perilous responsibility for a man to have to give account for others' deeds, who is not sufficient for his own [ESTIUS, from AQUINAS]. I wonder whether it be possible that any of the rulers should be saved [CHRYSOSTOM]. Compare Paul's address to the elders, Act 20:28; Co1 4:1-5, where also he connects ministers' responsibility with the account to be hereafter given (compare Pe1 5:4). with joy--at your obedience; anticipating, too, that you shall be their "joy" in the day of giving account (Phi 4:1). not with grief--at your disobedience; apprehending also that in the day of account you may be among the lost, instead of being their crown of rejoicing. In giving account, the stewards are liable to blame if aught be lost to the Master. "Mitigate their toil by every office of attention and respect, that with alacrity, rather than with grief, they may fulfil their duty, arduous enough in itself, even though no unpleasantness be added on your part" [GROTIUS]. that--Grief in your pastors is unprofitable for you, for it weakens their spiritual power; nay, more, "the groans (so the Greek for 'grief') of other creatures are heard; how much more of pastors!" [BENGEL]. So God will be provoked to avenge on you their "groaning" (Greek). If they must render God an account of their negligence, so must you for your ingratitude to them [GROTIUS].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Obey them that have the rule over you,.... Not the ecclesiastical rulers among the Jews, for to these they were no longer obliged, they being no longer under such tutors and governors; nor civil magistrates, though it was their duty to obey them, even Heathen ones; for as for Christian magistrates, as yet there were none; but their spiritual guides and governors, the same that are mentioned Heb 13:7 these the apostle exhorts them to "obey": by constantly tending upon the word preached by them, and hearkening to it; by receiving it with faith and love, as it appears agreeable to the Scriptures; for a contrary behaviour is pernicious to souls, and highly resented by God; and by being present at, and joining with them in the ordinances of Christ, as administered by them; and by regarding their admonitions, counsels, and advice: and submit yourselves; to the laws of Christ's house, as put in execution by them; and to their censures and reproofs, as delivered by the authority of the church; for they are spiritual fathers, and children should obey their parents, and submit to them; they are the ambassadors of Christ, stand in his stead, and represent him, wherefore their authority is great; and they are pastors or shepherds of the flock, whom the sheep should follow: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account: they watch not for themselves, for their worldly gain and advantage, and for the estates of men; but for the souls of men, to do them good, to comfort and edify them, to feed them with knowledge and understanding, and for the salvation of them; as such that must give an account to their own consciences, that they discharge their work aright, or they cannot be satisfied; and to the church, to whom they minister, to whom they are accountable, if they are dilatory and negligent; and especially as such as must stand before the judgment seat of Christ, and give an account to him of their ministry, of their use of talents committed to them, and of souls that are put under their care and charge; how they have discharged their duty to the souls of men, and how these have behaved towards them under the ministry of the word: the Alexandrian copy and the Vulgate Latin version read, "for they watch, as those that must give an account for your souls": the sense is much the same: that they may do it with joy, and not with grief; either do their work with joy, cheerfully; which they do, when they are obeyed and submitted to; when men attend upon the word and ordinances administered by them, and receive advantage, and grow in grace and spiritual knowledge; when they abide by the Gospel, and walk worthy of it; otherwise they do their work heavily, and with sorrow: or else give up their account with joy, and not with grief; either at the throne of grace, where they either rejoice or complain; or at the great day, when they will be witnesses, either for or against those that have been committed to them: for that is unprofitable unto you; for whose souls they watch; that is, the latter would be so, either to do their work sorrowing, or to give up their account by way of complaint; either of them must be to the disadvantage of such persons that occasion grief and sorrow.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:17 The relationship between the spiritual leaders and the members of the church may have been strained, so the author exhorts the members to obey them and do what they say. • The Greek word translated obey can also mean follow, place confidence in, or be persuaded by. • Christian leaders watch over people’s souls (Acts 20:28-31; 1 Pet 5:1-4), a role that carries grave responsibility, making them accountable to God (Jas 3:1). • The word sorrow could be translated groaning; it speaks of emotional burden and stress. Having leaders who are stressed and burdened because of an unruly church does not benefit the church.
Hebrews 13:17
Sacrifice, Obedience, and Prayer
16And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.17Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Dating Sermon
By Paul Washer23K1:34:25DatingISA 1:6MAT 6:331CO 13:11EPH 6:12PHP 1:62TI 2:22HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the issue of young men in today's society, referring to them as "mall waifs" who spend their time playing video games and hanging out at malls. The speaker emphasizes the importance of men working, striving, fighting, studying, and thinking. He also mentions the world's perspective on beauty and contrasts it with what the Bible says about beauty. The speaker then transitions to discussing the qualities of a godly husband, including laying down his life for his wife, having integrity and respect for her, and providing for her economically. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about an art exhibit the speaker visited in Lima, Peru, where he encountered a provocative image of a naked woman in a bathtub.
Fruitbearing
By Jim Cymbala10K51:28Bearing FruitMAT 21:43COL 1:101TH 5:12HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of bearing fruit in the Christian life. They share a story about a woman who kept a secret and was consumed by guilt. The speaker highlights the urgency of bearing fruit and encourages listeners to be loving, helpful, and kind. They explain that God wants believers to focus on being rather than just doing, and that growth is essential for bearing fruit. The sermon concludes with a reminder that bearing fruit brings glory to God, and references a verse in Matthew where Jesus warns the Jewish leaders that the kingdom of God will be given to those who produce its fruit.
Grumbling and Complaining - Part 1
By Keith Green9.6K31:32Spiritual ResponsibilityGrumblingNUM 11:1MAT 11:20HEB 10:28HEB 12:25HEB 13:17Keith Green addresses the dangers of grumbling and complaining, emphasizing how such attitudes anger God and burden spiritual leaders. He highlights the contrast between the Old and New Testaments, explaining that while the Old Covenant had severe requirements, the New Covenant carries a greater responsibility due to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Green warns that disobedience under the New Covenant incurs harsher judgment, as believers have been given the Spirit to help them obey. He uses biblical examples, particularly from Numbers and Hebrews, to illustrate the consequences of complaining and the importance of trust in God. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of God's love and justice, urging believers to be mindful of their attitudes and actions.
Submission and Authority (Luke 7:8)
By Alan Redpath3.8K31:02AuthorityMAT 6:33LUK 7:8ROM 6:16EPH 5:21HEB 13:17JAS 4:71PE 5:5In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of the Centurion servant and highlights the devastating effects of sin in the life of a believer. The preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing and submitting to God's authority in order to have power over oneself. He warns against the danger of rejecting the truth and leaving unchanged. The sermon concludes with a plea for listeners to consider their own submission to God's sovereignty and to seek deliverance from sin.
Are You Destroying the Church
By Francis Chan3.8K35:34The Sacredness of CommunityChurch UnityUnity in the ChurchNUM 20:122SA 24:152CH 7:1JHN 17:21ACT 5:11CO 3:161CO 11:27EPH 4:3TIT 3:10HEB 13:17Francis Chan emphasizes the critical importance of unity within the church, warning against the destructive nature of division and gossip. He reflects on biblical examples of God's severe response to those who treat sacred matters lightly, urging believers to recognize their role as God's temple and the seriousness of their words. Chan calls for repentance and a commitment to protect the unity of the church, highlighting that the world will believe in Christ through the church's oneness. He encourages the congregation to confront divisive behavior and to foster a culture of love and respect among believers.
(Basics) 71. Submission to Authority
By Zac Poonen2.5K12:40ACT 5:29ROM 13:1ROM 13:4ROM 13:6HEB 13:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of submitting to authority as instructed in the Bible. He references Romans 13:1, which states that all souls should be subject to the higher powers established by God. The preacher also mentions Acts 5:29, where the apostles declared that they must obey God rather than men when faced with questioning from the high priest. He explains that rebellion against authority is rooted in Satan, who encourages rebellion in various areas of life such as the home, society, and the church. The preacher concludes by urging listeners to submit to the authorities God has placed over them to avoid fellowship with Satan.
The Cost to Leadership
By Stephen Olford1.9K46:01LeadershipMAT 6:33JHN 21:221TI 4:132TI 4:22TI 4:5HEB 13:7HEB 13:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of leadership and the qualities that mark a true leader. He emphasizes the importance of character, conduct, and commitment in leadership. The preacher also highlights the need for leaders to have a genuine love and loyalty to Christ as Lord. He uses the example of Peter's denial and Jesus' questioning to illustrate the significance of love as a motivation for leadership. The sermon concludes with a reminder to remain faithful and obedient to Christ's call to leadership.
Of the Civil Magistrate
By Conrad Mbewe1.8K50:08Submission to AuthorityChristian ObedienceMAT 5:37ROM 13:1COL 3:22HEB 13:171PE 2:13Conrad Mbewe emphasizes the importance of submission to civil authority as a reflection of one's relationship with God, drawing from 1 Peter 2. He explains that true Christians, transformed by their faith, will naturally respect and obey the authorities established by God, as this promotes order in society and reflects a heart changed by Christ. Mbewe highlights that submission is not contingent on the fairness of authority but is a testament to one's consciousness of God and a path to spiritual maturity. He warns against hypocrisy in claiming to submit to God while rebelling against human authority, urging believers to seek genuine transformation in their hearts. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of obedience as a reflection of one's faith and relationship with God.
Gift of a Pastor
By Denny Kenaston1.8K1:17:52PastorDEU 25:41TH 5:121TI 5:171TI 5:19HEB 4:12HEB 13:7HEB 13:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to the word of God with a sincere and open heart. He highlights that our attitude towards the preacher can influence the perception of the message by those around us, including children. The sermon also touches on the balance of responsibilities between elders and the church, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and support. The preacher references Bible verses from Ephesians and Hebrews to support his points and emphasizes the importance of these principles in the growth and prosperity of a church.
Will You Last?
By John Piper1.7K49:301CO 13:5HEB 13:13HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker addresses the struggles and suffering that the audience has endured in the past. He commends them for their compassion towards prisoners and their joyful acceptance of the plundering of their property. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking happiness and fulfillment in God rather than worldly desires. He addresses the objection of self-denial by referencing Bible verses that speak about losing one's life for the sake of the gospel. The sermon concludes with a powerful quote from Jim Elliott about giving up what cannot be kept to gain what cannot be lost.
Through the Bible - Hebrews - Part 4
By Zac Poonen1.6K55:45HEB 8:12HEB 9:3HEB 10:10HEB 10:19HEB 13:6HEB 13:8HEB 13:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of striving against sin, just as Jesus did. He encourages the listeners to have an attitude of being willing to shed their blood rather than commit sin. The preacher also discusses the discipline of God and how it is for our good, even though it may not feel pleasant at the time. He urges the listeners to pursue peace with others and holiness, and warns against losing one's spiritual inheritance for temporary earthly gain. The sermon concludes with a reminder to be satisfied with what God provides and to not be envious of others, as God promises to never fail or forsake us.
A Close Watch on Doctrine
By C.J. Mahaney1.5K43:55Importance of DoctrineDoctrinePastoral AccountabilityPRO 4:23JHN 15:5GAL 5:171TI 3:11TI 4:162TI 2:15TIT 1:5HEB 13:17JAS 1:221PE 5:2C.J. Mahaney emphasizes the critical importance of closely monitoring both our lives and doctrine as pastors, drawing from 1 Timothy 4:16. He highlights that personal piety and sound doctrine are inseparable, and neglecting either can have serious consequences for both the pastor and their congregation. Mahaney encourages pastors to seek accountability and feedback from trusted friends and family to help identify blind spots in their lives. He stresses that effective pastoral ministry is rooted in the grace of God and the centrality of the Gospel, reminding us that our character must be more persuasive than our speech. Ultimately, he calls for a persistent commitment to self-examination and doctrinal integrity to fulfill our pastoral responsibilities.
Anabaptist History (Day 13) the Birth of the Hutterites-Part 1
By Dean Taylor1.4K1:24:18PRO 4:7MAT 18:15ROM 12:181CO 1:101CO 13:4GAL 6:2HEB 13:17JAS 1:191PE 4:12This sermon delves into the history of the Hutterites, tracing their origins from the Moravian Anabaptists and the zeal that characterized their faith. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and spirit behind historical events and scriptures, cautioning against misinterpretation from isolated quotes or verses. The narrative includes conflicts over beliefs within the community, showcasing the challenges faced by early leaders like Wilhelm Rublin. Additionally, a poignant story is shared about a leader returning to find his community vanished, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles endured by the Hutterites as depicted in the Chronicles and Martyr's Mirror.
Human Authorities-God's Servants
By Denny Kenaston1.4K1:24:39GovernmentISA 66:2MAT 6:33EPH 6:5COL 3:22HEB 13:7HEB 13:171PE 5:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and submitting to authority in our lives. He shares a personal story of his own experience of being lazy and receiving discipline at his workplace. The speaker explains that God has established various lines of authority, such as bosses, judges, and government officials, and it is our responsibility to submit to them. He warns that those who refuse to obey authority often face consequences and end up in prison. On the other hand, the speaker highlights the blessings that come from understanding and submitting to authority, particularly in the lives of young people whom God chooses to use.
Descending Morals and Sinking Values
By Ralph Sexton1.3K37:16HEB 13:1HEB 13:7HEB 13:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of brotherly love and helping one another in the church. He mentions the biblical verse about entertaining strangers, suggesting that angels may be among us. The preacher shares personal experiences of encountering angels and believes that God can still send angels to comfort and help in times of stress. He emphasizes the need to follow the inherent infallible word of God and be accountable for our actions, especially in the face of societal pressures. The sermon concludes with a reminder to remember and support those who are in bonds or in jail.
The Local Church 5 - Part 5
By William MacDonald1.3K08:03HEB 13:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of hospitality, involvement in the local chapel, and maintaining a positive attitude towards fellow believers. It also discusses the significance of distinguishing between fundamental truths, important teachings with varying interpretations, and peripheral matters. The message encourages individuals to form their own convictions based on the Word of God and to adhere to scriptural principles despite the size of their gifts. Additionally, it highlights the need for spiritual power alongside following the right pattern and being open to God's work of beginning something new.
Audio Sermon: (1 Peter - Part 33): Humble Yourselves Under the Mighty Hand of God
By A.W. Tozer1.2K30:05PSA 23:1EZK 34:1JHN 10:11HEB 13:171PE 5:1This sermon delves into the role of elders in the church, emphasizing the importance of wise and experienced leaders who are dedicated to feeding, overseeing, and setting an example for the flock of God. It highlights the need for spiritual leadership, the provision of nourishment and protection, and the significance of humility and godliness in shepherding God's people. The ultimate focus is on the expectation of the chief shepherd's appearance and the eternal reward for faithful service.
Biblical Eldership - Lesson 2
By John Piper1.1K44:11LUK 10:18LUK 10:20ACT 20:28ROM 12:6HEB 13:7HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of leadership within the church. He references Hebrews 13:7 and 13:17, which emphasize the need to remember and imitate those who have spoken the word of God and to obey and submit to leaders who watch over the souls of the congregation. The speaker highlights the role of elders in shepherding the flock of God, emphasizing the importance of leading by example rather than lording over others. He acknowledges the potential risks of leadership, such as kingdom or empire building, but emphasizes that if leaders have a vision aligned with God's will, they do not need to manipulate or force it.
Evangelists Responsibility to Local Church
By Tony Miano1.1K1:01:09SubmissionACT 6:21TH 5:12HEB 13:7HEB 13:171JN 2:18In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of biblical evangelism and the use of the law in sharing the message of Christ. The speaker shares their personal experience of being introduced to biblical evangelism and feeling isolated among their Christian friends and family. They discuss the importance of distributing tracks, engaging in conversations with strangers, and preaching in the open air. The sermon also touches on the biblical concept of speaking in tongues and prophesying, emphasizing the importance of orderly proclamation of God's truth.
Church Live Re-Visited: Session Four - Part 2
By Ron Bailey1.0K32:39LUK 12:471CO 3:81CO 3:21EPH 4:23COL 3:9HEB 13:17This sermon delves into the process of spiritual renewal and growth as outlined in Colossians and Ephesians, emphasizing the ongoing transformation of believers. It also discusses the importance of trusting and respecting spiritual leaders in the church, highlighting the genuine spiritual authority and responsibility they carry. The sermon touches on the concept of rewards for faithful labor in serving God and the solemn warnings about accountability and perseverance in the Christian journey.
God Sees and Waits for One Person to Stand in the Gap to Bless
By Keith Daniel9491:34:44PRO 6:23ISA 43:2EZK 3:17HEB 10:25HEB 13:17JAS 4:41JN 1:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God, warning against the dangers of cutting oneself off from communion with God and fellowship with other believers. It highlights the role of elders in watching over and warning the congregation, urging them to walk in the light and avoid worldly influences. The speaker shares personal stories and powerful illustrations to drive home the message of staying faithful and seeking God's guidance in all aspects of life.
Spiritual Leadership
By George Verwer90240:52Spiritual LeadershipMAT 6:33EPH 4:111TI 3:12TI 3:16HEB 13:7HEB 13:171PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual leadership and the responsibility that comes with it. He highlights the need for leaders to be men of prayer and to have a vision for their work. Love is also emphasized as a crucial aspect of leadership, as without it, all other efforts are meaningless. The speaker also points out the lack of trained leaders in the church and the urgent need for more individuals to step up and teach the Word of God.
Crowns - Part 2
By Ken Baird82156:22JHN 21:15ROM 6:6HEB 13:17JAS 1:12In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Ephesians chapter 4 and emphasizes that each person has been given a gift and the power to use it for the Lord. The preacher mentions the story of a shepherd who was struggling to feed the people of God due to quarreling among them. The preacher highlights the importance of shepherding and feeding the flock, stating that it is a threefold duty outlined by Peter. The preacher also mentions the need for multiple pastors and teachers to guide and direct God's people.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 14
By Don Courville75429:19Radio ShowISA 40:28MAT 6:33JHN 8:32ROM 7:15ROM 8:28HEB 13:17In this sermon, the speaker addresses the importance of seeking the truth and understanding the problems we face in our lives. They emphasize the need to honor and glorify God in our pursuit of truth. The speaker also highlights the responsibility of church leaders to provide resources and support to their congregations, such as good books and special speakers. They suggest that pastors can listen to tapes or attend seminars for personal instruction. Additionally, the speaker expresses their burden to provide pastors and churches with helpful books and resources through their tape ministry.
Cut Off
By Keith Daniel7501:07:56HEB 13:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of not cutting oneself off from vital fellowship with God and the godly. It stresses the need to heed warnings from spiritual leaders and elders, to submit to their guidance, and to throw away anything that may lead to spiritual harm or compromise. The message highlights the role of the godly in warning and guiding others to avoid dangers and stay aligned with God's will.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Obey them that have the rule over you - Obey your leaders, τοις ἡγουμενοις. He is not fit to rule who is not capable of guiding. See on Heb 13:7, (note). In the former verse the apostle exhorts them to remember those who had been their leaders, and to imitate their faith; in this he exhorts them to obey the leaders they now had, and to submit to their authority in all matters of doctrine and discipline, on the ground that they watched for their souls, and should have to give an account of their conduct to God. If this conduct were improper, they must give in their report before the great tribunal with grief; but in it must be given: if holy and pure, they would give it in with joy. It is an awful consideration that many pastors, who had loved their flocks as their own souls, shall be obliged to accuse them before God for either having rejected or neglected the great salvation.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Obey them that have the rule over you--(Compare Heb 13:7, Heb 13:24). This threefold mention of the rulers is peculiar to this Epistle. In other Epistles Paul includes the rulers in his exhortations. But here the address is limited to the general body of the Church, in contrast to the rulers to whom they are charged to yield reverent submission. Now this is just what might be expected when the apostle of the Gentiles was writing to the Palestine Christians, among whom James and the eleven apostles had exercised a more immediate authority. It was important he should not seem to set himself in opposition to their guides, but rather strengthen their hands; he claims no authority directly or indirectly over these rulers themselves [BIRKS]. "Remember" your deceased rulers (Heb 13:7). "Obey" your living rulers; nay, more, not only obey in cases where no sacrifice of self is required, and where you are persuaded they are right (so the Greek, for "obey"), but "submit yourselves" as a matter of dutiful yielding, when your judgment and natural will incline you in an opposite direction. they--on their part; so the Greek. As they do their part, so do you yours. So Paul exhorts, Th1 5:12-13. watch--"are vigilant" (Greek). for--Greek, "in behalf of." must give account--The strongest stimulus to watchfulness (Mar 13:34-37). CHRYSOSTOM was deeply struck with these words, as he tells us [On the Priesthood, 6], "The fear of this threat continually agitates my soul." do it--"watch for your soul's eternal salvation." It is a perilous responsibility for a man to have to give account for others' deeds, who is not sufficient for his own [ESTIUS, from AQUINAS]. I wonder whether it be possible that any of the rulers should be saved [CHRYSOSTOM]. Compare Paul's address to the elders, Act 20:28; Co1 4:1-5, where also he connects ministers' responsibility with the account to be hereafter given (compare Pe1 5:4). with joy--at your obedience; anticipating, too, that you shall be their "joy" in the day of giving account (Phi 4:1). not with grief--at your disobedience; apprehending also that in the day of account you may be among the lost, instead of being their crown of rejoicing. In giving account, the stewards are liable to blame if aught be lost to the Master. "Mitigate their toil by every office of attention and respect, that with alacrity, rather than with grief, they may fulfil their duty, arduous enough in itself, even though no unpleasantness be added on your part" [GROTIUS]. that--Grief in your pastors is unprofitable for you, for it weakens their spiritual power; nay, more, "the groans (so the Greek for 'grief') of other creatures are heard; how much more of pastors!" [BENGEL]. So God will be provoked to avenge on you their "groaning" (Greek). If they must render God an account of their negligence, so must you for your ingratitude to them [GROTIUS].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Obey them that have the rule over you,.... Not the ecclesiastical rulers among the Jews, for to these they were no longer obliged, they being no longer under such tutors and governors; nor civil magistrates, though it was their duty to obey them, even Heathen ones; for as for Christian magistrates, as yet there were none; but their spiritual guides and governors, the same that are mentioned Heb 13:7 these the apostle exhorts them to "obey": by constantly tending upon the word preached by them, and hearkening to it; by receiving it with faith and love, as it appears agreeable to the Scriptures; for a contrary behaviour is pernicious to souls, and highly resented by God; and by being present at, and joining with them in the ordinances of Christ, as administered by them; and by regarding their admonitions, counsels, and advice: and submit yourselves; to the laws of Christ's house, as put in execution by them; and to their censures and reproofs, as delivered by the authority of the church; for they are spiritual fathers, and children should obey their parents, and submit to them; they are the ambassadors of Christ, stand in his stead, and represent him, wherefore their authority is great; and they are pastors or shepherds of the flock, whom the sheep should follow: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account: they watch not for themselves, for their worldly gain and advantage, and for the estates of men; but for the souls of men, to do them good, to comfort and edify them, to feed them with knowledge and understanding, and for the salvation of them; as such that must give an account to their own consciences, that they discharge their work aright, or they cannot be satisfied; and to the church, to whom they minister, to whom they are accountable, if they are dilatory and negligent; and especially as such as must stand before the judgment seat of Christ, and give an account to him of their ministry, of their use of talents committed to them, and of souls that are put under their care and charge; how they have discharged their duty to the souls of men, and how these have behaved towards them under the ministry of the word: the Alexandrian copy and the Vulgate Latin version read, "for they watch, as those that must give an account for your souls": the sense is much the same: that they may do it with joy, and not with grief; either do their work with joy, cheerfully; which they do, when they are obeyed and submitted to; when men attend upon the word and ordinances administered by them, and receive advantage, and grow in grace and spiritual knowledge; when they abide by the Gospel, and walk worthy of it; otherwise they do their work heavily, and with sorrow: or else give up their account with joy, and not with grief; either at the throne of grace, where they either rejoice or complain; or at the great day, when they will be witnesses, either for or against those that have been committed to them: for that is unprofitable unto you; for whose souls they watch; that is, the latter would be so, either to do their work sorrowing, or to give up their account by way of complaint; either of them must be to the disadvantage of such persons that occasion grief and sorrow.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:17 The relationship between the spiritual leaders and the members of the church may have been strained, so the author exhorts the members to obey them and do what they say. • The Greek word translated obey can also mean follow, place confidence in, or be persuaded by. • Christian leaders watch over people’s souls (Acts 20:28-31; 1 Pet 5:1-4), a role that carries grave responsibility, making them accountable to God (Jas 3:1). • The word sorrow could be translated groaning; it speaks of emotional burden and stress. Having leaders who are stressed and burdened because of an unruly church does not benefit the church.