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 preach unless they are sent [Rom 10:15]?”
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.
Respect and verify authority before listening.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- church meetings
- personal study
- seeking counsel
- evaluating teachers
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discern genuine authority?
- When should you question a leader?
Blind obedience can suppress legitimate reform and critical thinking.