NFL fans were hugely disappointed with the performance of the replacement referees during the recent lockout of the regular officials. Players too, were frustrated with the missed calls, inconsistency and lack of confidence demonstrated by the replacements. Action often came to a halt while the referees took a painfully long time to decide what to do. Players tested the officials to see how much they could get away with on the field. The substitute officials were trying to do a good job, but they lacked the training and experience needed to succeed, and the quality of the football games suffered significantly.   

When the regular officials finally returned to action Thursday night, they received a standing ovation from the fans. This unusual show of respect came as a result of seeing the kind of chaos that occurs when proper protocol is not enforced.

The leaders of the local church act as the officials who maintain order in the congregation. They try to ensure that the members play by the rules (the Bible), and they discipline those who commit serious infractions.

Too many churches are trying to get by with the equivalent of replacement officials. There is a great need for men who are called by God and led by the Holy Spirit to step up and show leadership. And there is also a need for Christians everywhere to submit to the leadership of those who are guiding their congregations. When spiritual leaders begin to work with spiritual followers, the change of atmosphere will be like the difference between night and day, and everyone will benefit tremendously.

“Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.”—1 Thessalonians 5:12-13.