The Great Shepherd, His Workers & His Power (Hebrews 13:17-21)

E.P.I.C. Word of Truth

While addressing the relationship between spiritual leaders and their congregations, this passage offers profound insights that are particularly relevant as we consider the role of fathers in our lives and the church's life.

This passage calls us to obedience and submission to those who lead us, for they watch over our souls with a sense of divine accountability. Fathers, too, are called to be shepherds in their households, guiding their children in the ways of the Lord with love and integrity.

Just as spiritual leaders are to watch over the flock of God, fathers are entrusted with the spiritual nurturing and protection of their families – that is the most important thing fathers can do, and that is our priority, this responsibility has priority over all other things for fathers.

The role of a father mirrors that of our heavenly Father—caring, guiding, disciplining, and loving unconditionally. This caring guiding, and loving is not based on how our children behave or how they behave toward us – fathers we are to do all this unconditionally.

Fathers, much like our spiritual leaders, are to lead by example, living out our faith in every aspect of life. We are to be men of good conscience, striving to live honestly and in a manner that glorifies God.