A ruler of the synagogue would be one example of a ruler of the Jews. The examples of admonition of the Gentile churches do not include the part found in
Hebrews 13:7 about the rulers that have spoken to you the word of God. The rulers of the Gentiles didn’t speak the word of God (OT) to the Gentiles. They were pagan, idolatrous people.
The Jews were unique in that the Romans allowed them to keep the biggest part of the theocracy intact. This included having their own government to a large extent. They had the Sanhedrin Court and Jewish rulers that this system entailed.
So the admonition of Paul to the Church of Rome looked a little different than the instructions to the Hebrews. The Gentile churches were missing the layer of leadership that the Hebrews had. Notice the similarities of Paul’s instructions to the Romans.
Rom.13
[1] Let every
soul be subject unto
the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
[2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
[3] For
rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
[4] For he is the
minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
[5]
Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
[6] For for this cause pay ye tribute also:
for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
[7] Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear;
honour to whom honour.
Notice the bold phrases. This is not referring to pastors either. But the words soul, ministers, and honor are present in this admonition to the Gentiles to treat their rulers with respect and to submit to them.
Paul is instructing the Romans in essence, to obey they that rule over you.
Another example:
Tit.3
[1] Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
Obey magistrates, because? They rule over you. Be subject to the higher powers of secular government (principalities and powers).
This is another example of submitting to they that have rule over you.
Threaded Mode
