The Lord commands us to “[h]onor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you” (Exodus 20:12) and to “[o]bey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit” (Hebrews 13:17). It can, however, be difficult for believers to listen to religious leaders when they address hot-button political issues like the death penalty, abortion, migration, and poverty. It is especially difficult if we have strong opinions or independent expertise. How can we be dutiful children and earnest students of religious authorities whom God has appointed to bring us spiritual life and earthly guidance?
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