Skip to content

Bishops Quote by Bernard of Clairvaux

“Obey your bishop! "Obey those set over you [Heb 13:17]," the teachers of the Church… I remind you, my dear friends, of what I said when I was with you: do not receive any outside or unknown preacher, unless he be sent by your bishop or preaches with the permission of the pope. For "how shall they…” quote by Bernard of Clairvaux
Download Open image
“Obey your bishop! "Obey those set over you [Heb 13:17]," the teachers of the Church… I remind you, my dear friends, of what I said when I was with you: do not receive any outside or unknown preacher, unless he be sent by your bishop or preaches with the permission of the pope. For "how shall they preach unless they are sent [Rom 10:15]?”

Bernard of Clairvaux

About This Quote

Source Letter: Sermon to the Clergy, c. 1150

Obeying ecclesiastical authority ensures doctrinal unity and protects the faithful from false teachings.

In simple terms: Follow church leaders to stay true to the faith.

Key Takeaway

Respect and verify authority before listening.

Themes

authority faith doctrine obedience

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

theological instructional

When to use this quote

  • church meetings
  • personal study
  • seeking counsel
  • evaluating teachers

Key Concepts

Ecclesiology hierarchy discernment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you discern genuine authority?
  • When should you question a leader?
A Different Perspective

Blind obedience can suppress legitimate reform and critical thinking.

4.1 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Bernard of Clairvaux

Explore all 120 Bernard of Clairvaux quotes

More Bishops quotes

Browse all 323 Bishops quotes