The Responsibility of Those Having Authority and Influence
Jeremiah Burroughs. Hosea 13:1 When Ephraim spoke trembling, he exalted himself in Israel; but when he offended in Baal, he died. When Ephraim spoke, there was trembling. There was a time when Ephraim was very honourable among the tribes, when the very speaking of Ephraim had great power, and took great impression upon whomsoever he spoke to. 1. It is an honour to have respect from others when we speak, to have what we say received with reverence and respect, showing that it impresses the hearts of others, and is not cast out as a vain and worthless thing. Let children, servants, and all inferiors, learn to give due honour to those whom God has set above them. 2. Those who are in place of power over others account it their honour, not only that those under them should regard, but that they should tremble at what they say. Man greatly delights to lift himself above others, and to lord it imperiously over them. 3. The subjection of the hearts of men to those in authority is a work of God, and God is to have the glory of it. 4. The meaner the beginnings of men are, the more imperious they often prove when in power. 5. Sin will bring men's honour down. Let men take heed of trusting their former repute, for let them have done what they will heretofore, yet if they depart from God, their honour will depart too. (Jeremiah Burroughs.) Parallel Verses KJV: When Ephraim spake trembling, he exalted himself in Israel; but when he offended in Baal, he died. WEB: When Ephraim spoke, there was trembling. He exalted himself in Israel, but when he became guilty in Baal, he died.