Two necessities: Esteem and Peace. 1st Thessalonians 5:13 There are two essential traits of a healthy assembly: valuing those who lead the Lord’s people and maintaining peace among all believers. Respect for our leaders is not only because of the roles and responsibilities assigned to them by the Holy Spirit but also because of the work they do, which might be more practical. Those with insight into God's truths have the duty to share correct teachings with the believers in that fellowship. Admonishing is not just about correcting what is wrong but also about promoting and teaching what is right.
Some among us are above us, possessing the capacity and God-given wisdom to help us through life's difficulties. Others, by the simple fact of having lived longer, know how to address problems and develop wise solutions. It's comforting to have such people to turn to, knowing with confidence that they care about our spiritual well-being. When we respect them, everything they do—whether it’s offering encouragement or admonishment—will come from the right attitude toward them and an appropriate response to their leadership and decisions.
People like that need to be respected, not with hollow flattery, but through a thoughtful, empathetic appreciation for who they are and what they do for the Lord's people. We must show them that we respect their work and competence in God's work and express our gratitude and love. When correction is needed, it is often met with resentment or rebellion. When that happens, take a moment to reflect on why they acted as they did. How does a person’s attitude influence others in the congregation? Does it strengthen and uplift believers in their faith? Does it foster peace or cause division within the fellowship? Does it support holiness and the truth of God’s word?
These are important considerations to keep in mind when we pray for, obey, and submit to those who lead us. We should hold them in high respect and appreciate and love them for who they are and what they do as they serve the Lord in their calling.
They, in turn, need to promote harmony among God's people in the assembly and maintain harmony among themselves as leaders among us. A divided, contentious oversight quickly loses the respect of the believers in the assembly and their ability to lead. Fellowship can easily be lost in an assembly when it is lost among those who lead. Living in peace with others means there are times I have to listen to and act on the opinions of others, even if they differ in some ways from mine. Leadership has its dangers, and Satan knows that if he can divide leaders, he can divide assemblies.