The Four Eleven Foundation: 1 Thessalonians

10.4. BE PRAISEFUL (Hebrews 13:15, 16)

Hebrews 13:15 "Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." (NKJV)

Preceding verses have referred to Old Testament sacrifices, offered only seasonally. In contrast, the believer, worshipping may offer sacrifices of praise continually, because by such sacrifices God is well pleased. He has brought us near and makes our lips fruitful in spiritual praise offered in Jesus (Isaiah 57:19; Ephesians 5:17-20 ).

The praiseful heart will overflow in acceptable service, not unacceptable, empty rituals (Isaiah 58:6-9; Hosea 6:6 ). Sacrifices of praise will include practical deeds of loving helpfulness (James 1:27 ). Do not forget God intends that we do more in our worship than sing and praise, He delights in our doing good and sharing in practical ways with others.

Hebrews 13:16 "But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased." (NKJV)

10.5. BE RESPONSIVE (Hebrews 13:17)

Respect for and compliance with present leaders is the response urged.

Hebrews 13:17 "Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you." (NKJV)

The fact that they are leaders means they are to be followed in the example they are presenting in their following of Christ. The leaders need to persuade others to follow them by their own loving service. The New Testament never condones dictatorial leadership (Mark 10:42-43; 3 John :9,10; 2 Corinthians 1:24; 1 Peter 5:3 ). Leaders are to lead wisely and lovingly, and as accountable both to those they lead and the Lord (Hebrews 13:17 ). Voluntary submission to responsible leadership makes the labour a joy, and is of great advantage to all.

10.6. BE PRAYERFUL (Hebrews 13:18, 19)

Hebrews 13:18 "Pray for us; for we are confident that we have a good conscience, in all things desiring to live honorably." (NKJV)

Real prayer is the best support that can be given to leadership (Hebrews 13:18-19 ). Prayer that they act, speak, and live in good conscience. Good because regulated by the Word and Christlikeness, and a life lived in the Holy Spirit. What we ask in sincerity for others, God will surely answer in our own lives too.

QUESTIONS FOR GROUP INTERACTION

Have you delighted the Lord recently with practical sharing (Hebrews 13:16 )?
Does the New Testament ever condone dictatorial leadership and to whom are they to give account (Hebrews 13:17 )?
What kind of leadership do you find it easy to submit to?