“Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:7-8).
The Bible is a perfect combination of lofty ideals and brutal reality. This passage is an excellent illustration of this unique combination.
If God’s will is done earth as it is in heaven, all His flock would have human leaders who are worthy spiritual examples. After considering the outcome of their godly conduct, being imitators of them as they are of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1) would be the only sane and safe thing to do.
But, reality rarely rises to the level of divine expectation. Among God’s people are men like Diotrephes (3 John 9-10) and women like Jezebel (Revelation 2:20). Their conduct is abhorrent to God. Their example influences others for evil instead of godliness.
Because of such unworthy examples (and even the scattered flaws in good examples), God has the perfect remedy–Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His life was purposefully lived to be an example for us (1 Peter 2:21).
His life was perfect; His example is flawless; therefore, we have a sure example to follow.
