Hebrews 13:7

Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of [their] conversation.

Remember {G3421} them which have the rule {G2233} over you {G5216}, who {G3748} have spoken {G2980} unto you {G5213} the word {G3056} of God {G2316}: whose {G3739} faith {G4102} follow {G3401}, considering {G333} the end {G1545} of their conversation {G391}.

Remember your leaders, those who spoke God’s message to you. Reflect on the results of their way of life, and imitate their trust —

Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.

Remember them that had the rule over you, men that spake unto you the word of God; and considering the issue of their life, imitate their faith.

Hebrews 13:7 serves as a crucial reminder for believers to honor and learn from their spiritual leaders, particularly those who have faithfully conveyed God's truth.

Context

This verse is part of the final exhortations and practical instructions in the book of Hebrews, following profound theological arguments about Christ's superiority as High Priest and the new covenant. The author transitions from deep doctrine to practical Christian living, urging the readers to apply their faith in daily life, including their relationship with church leadership. It sets the stage for further instructions regarding obedience to leaders in Hebrews 13:17.

Key Themes

  • Honoring Spiritual Leadership: The command to "remember them which have the rule over you" highlights the respect and appreciation due to those who shepherd the flock. This remembrance is not merely nostalgic but an active recognition of their past and ongoing influence.
  • The Authority of God's Word: True spiritual authority is rooted in the faithful proclamation of "the word of God." Leaders are esteemed because they are conduits of divine truth, not because of personal charisma or worldly power. This aligns with the emphasis on the power of God's Word throughout scripture, such as in 2 Timothy 3:16.
  • Imitation of Exemplary Faith: Believers are exhorted to "whose faith follow." The focus is on imitating the steadfast faith and unwavering trust in God demonstrated by these leaders, rather than merely their methods or personality. Their lives serve as tangible examples of what it means to live by faith.
  • The Enduring Legacy of a Godly Life: The phrase "considering the end of [their] conversation" encourages reflection on the culmination and outcome of their leaders' lives. This refers to their consistent conduct, character, and ultimate faithfulness, even unto death, providing a powerful testimony for those who follow. It suggests observing the fruit of their faith.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "conversation" in this verse (Greek: anastrophēs / ἀναστροφῆς) does not refer to verbal communication as it commonly does today. Instead, it signifies one's conduct, manner of life, or lifestyle. It encompasses the entire way a person lives and behaves. Therefore, "considering the end of their conversation" means observing the outcome or culmination of their entire life's walk with God, providing a powerful example of enduring faith and godliness.

Practical Application

For believers today, Hebrews 13:7 provides timeless guidance:

  • Value Godly Mentors: Actively seek out and learn from those in your spiritual community who demonstrate deep faith and consistently teach God's Word.
  • Discern True Leadership: Recognize that genuine spiritual authority comes from faithfulness to God's Word, not from titles or positions alone.
  • Emulate Faith, Not Flaws: Focus on imitating the steadfast faith and godly character of leaders, understanding that all human leaders are imperfect, but their enduring faith is worthy of emulation.
  • Observe the Fruit: Pay attention to the long-term impact and legacy of those who have faithfully served. A life lived in devotion to God, even through trials, leaves a powerful and encouraging testimony for others to follow, much like the cloud of witnesses mentioned in Hebrews 12:1.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:12

    And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:13

    And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. [And] be at peace among yourselves.

  • Hebrews 13:17

    Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that [is] unprofitable for you.

  • Philippians 3:17

    ¶ Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

  • Hebrews 6:12

    That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

  • 1 Thessalonians 1:6

    ¶ And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:

  • Acts 14:23

    And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.
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