1 Thessalonians 5:12
We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you...

A man genuinely called by God to a position of leadership within His church should be respected, not necessarily because of the man (although his character is to be above reproach), but primarily because of the position. Those who labor among the children of God, who lead them in preaching and teaching and encouragement, are worthy of respect because of how the Spirit has determined to use them.

And this respect must be evident at all times, even among periods of disagreement. It is quite possible to respect someone, even as they deliver unwanted news, offer difficult advice, or propose a path which you have no desire to walk. A man of God may often times be called to deliver a message of conviction or coming judgment; may be tasked to question long-standing tradition that distracts from God's Word; may be charged with disciplining those under his watch and care. In such instances, it is easy to see how a person can disrespect the man and the position because of their reaction to the message.

We are reminded of the passage in 2 Kings 2:23-25, where rebellious youths show contempt for Elisha, mocking his baldness. They were met by two angry bears and mauled because of their statements: not against the man but against his position as prophet -- the very voice of God to His people. And while it is unlikely that any would meet a similar fate for disparaging their pastor in our day, the principle of the passage remains -- a man appointed by God is to be respected.

Clearly this does not mean we are to excuse moral promiscuity or impurity in the lives of these men. Indeed, we cannot imagine Paul, who wrote these words, ever permitting a man of leadership to violate the rule of Christ without consequence. When significant moral failure is obvious and action must be taken, let it be action that continues to respect the position of being appointed by God.

Leaders are not held to a lower standard, but a higher one than that of others in the fellowship. Yet it is God who reserves the final judgment as to whether His appointed position has been disrespected, either by the men who hold it or the people under it. May we each make a renewed effort to demonstrate visible, purposeful respect for the men called to this special task.