We live in a time of incredible access to biblical teaching. With a phone or computer, we can listen to godly pastors, read solid theology, and study Scripture with tools that used to be locked behind seminary doors. As a local elder, I regularly benefit from these resources and am grateful for them. There is much good the Lord is doing through faithful voices online.
Yet, the reality of local shepherding remains vital. Just recently, Pastor Eric posted about his availability to provide counseling to the body, and the response was almost overwhelming. This outpouring reveals how deeply people hunger not only for biblical teaching but also for personal care, encouragement, and counsel that only a local pastor can offer.
Hebrews 13:7–9 brings us back to something digital tools can never replace:
“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings…” (Hebrews 13:7–9, ESV)
God is reminding us not to overlook the faithful shepherds He has placed right in front of us, in the local body. Consider these five truths from the text:
Commend Their Commission
“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God…” (v. 7a)
These men have been entrusted with the sacred task of shepherding souls through the Word. They are not just delivering sermons or running programs, they are investing deeply in people’s spiritual lives. They pray with you in your struggles, celebrate your joys, and discipline with the goal of restoration. This is a calling marked by sacrifice, often unnoticed outside the church walls.
While online teachers can offer biblical insight, your local pastors carry the burden of your soul’s health in a personal and ongoing way. Remembering their commission means appreciating the unique and heavy responsibility they bear, a responsibility to feed, protect, and guide the flock God has entrusted to them.
Consider Their Conduct
“Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” (v. 7b)
One of the richest blessings of the local church is seeing faith lived out in community and relationship. You get to witness your leaders’ consistency in prayer, their humility when correction is needed, their perseverance through trials, and their joyful service even when weary.
This visible example brings the gospel to life in a way online teaching cannot. When you imitate their faith, you are not just copying words, you are following a tangible pattern of trust and obedience to Christ.
It is also a reminder to watch closely and discern. No leader is perfect, but faithfulness and godly character mark those who are truly shepherding well. When you see this, it gives you confidence to walk alongside them and grow in your own faith.
Cling to Christ
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (v. 8)
Our Lord never changes. He is the eternal, unshakable foundation of our faith. In a world where trends and teachings come and go, Christ remains steadfast. Holding onto this truth anchors our hearts and minds amid shifting cultural and theological tides.
Contend for the Truth
“Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings…” (v. 9)
The digital world offers a flood of spiritual voices, some encouraging, some confusing, and some dangerously off course. The local church, with its pastors and elders, exists to protect this truth. They help us discern and resist teachings that stray from the gospel, guarding us from the “diverse and strange” messages that can divide and mislead.
While it is good to explore and learn broadly, true spiritual stability comes from holding fast to the unchanging Christ through those God has placed to care for us locally. They walk with you in truth, correcting gently and lovingly when needed.
I love to learn from good teaching online. It is a gift that has opened doors for many. But it is not a replacement for God’s plan.
Your local pastors/elders are not chasing views or fame, they are pouring out their lives for your soul. They carry you in prayer, suffer alongside you, and labor faithfully so you might grow in grace. That kind of shepherding cannot be replicated in a video or podcast.
Jesus Christ is the same, and so is His shepherding care, still delivered most clearly through the local body by faithful men who know your name and carry your burdens.