stephen R Harrison

Do you read the verses around your favorite Bible verse? We should. They will keep you from misinterpreting Scripture.

Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” That’s one of my favorites. This Scripture means Jesus doesn’t change. He’s constant. He’s always been…timeless…trustworthy.

It was interesting to read the verses before and after that verse: “Remember your LEADERS who spoke the Word of God to you. As you carefully observe the outcome of their lives, imitate their faith” (v. 7) and “So not be LED away by all kinds of strange teachings” (v. 9).

They remind us LEADERS (elders, pastors, deacons, teachers, etc.) LEAD with the Word that doesn’t change because Jesus doesn’t change. They remind us not to be LED away by LEADERS who teach strange things about, in addition to, or separate from the true Word of God. I’ve seen leaders do this…and it led to their downfall. Don’t let it lead to yours.

If Jesus doesn’t change and His Word doesn’t change, then it’s His leaders who must change their minds, methods, words, doctrine, and whatever else to match the changeless eternal Christ and His Word.

If a leader wants to teach strange things in opposition or addition to His Word, don’t let them lead you there. Get out the Bible, discuss it with humility. and let Scripture be the authority. If that doesn’t work, get out of there.

Yes, verse 17 says submit to your leaders…but not blindly or in disregard to the truth that is Christ and His Word. Do submit to those who lead by humbly, faithfully, and consistently teaching and living out the Word.