13:17 Obey . . . submit. The new generation of leaders (13:7) was apparently not receiving the respectful submission that their task warranted.

they are keeping watch. Faithful church leaders are like faithful shepherds (Jer. 23:4; Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2–4) or watchmen who call out danger alarms to the city (Ezek. 33:6). The leaders’ care is deep and genuine because they were appointed by God and will give their account to Him (cf. 4:13). Everyone will suffer if their ministry is resisted.