Hello,I'm here again with this one...
really a "beauty".
***w99 6/1 16-17 Be Obedient and Be Submissive.
When we receive a gift, it is only fitting to express appreciation. "Show yourselves thankful," says Colossians 3:15.
What, then, about the "gifts in men," the precious gift that Jehovah has given us? Of course, we are primarily thankful to Jehovah, the generous Gift-Giver. But what about the "gifts in men" themselves?
How can we show that we appreciate them? We can demonstrate our appreciation for the "gifts in men" by being quick to heed their Bible-based counsel and decisions.
The Bible advises us: "Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping watch over your souls as those who will render an account; that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would be damaging to you." (Hebrews 13:17)
Notice that we must not only "be obedient" but also "be submissive" to those taking the lead.
The Greek word for "be submissive" literally means "be you yielding under."
Commenting on the expressions "be obedient" and "be submissive,"
Bible scholar R. C. H. Lenski says: "One obeys when one agrees with what he is told to do, is persuaded of its correctness and profitableness; one yields. . . when he has a contrary opinion."
When we understand and agree with the direction of those taking the lead, obedience may come readily
But what if we do not understand the reason behind a particular decision? –
and this:
*** w56 6/1 346 Keep Pace by Conforming to Theocratic Requirements ***
11 Since the “faithful and discreet slave” has been entrusted with all the Master’s goods, then let
us view with proper mental perception that whatever the ‘faithful slave’ does is for our good.
The slave is thereby fulfilling its own obligation before Jehovah in getting His work done.
Therefore the slave’s will is Jehovah’s will. Rebellion against the slave is rebellion against God.
A proper mental attitude toward the slave’s direction is a part of keeping pace with the New World society.
J.C.MacHislopp