Deuteronomy 17:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Therefore, it is those who choose to disobey who bear the blame for their disrespect, facing the gravest consequence, death: "Let him die," it is declared, "who shall pay no heed to the priest who stands there in the service of the Lord thy God." Thus, the presence and service of God are of immense significance, and those who fail to honor God's minister are subject to judgment and punishment; those who disregard this Divine authority will face severe repercussions for their contempt. Our Lord Jesus Christ Himself exemplified respect for this law, urging the Jewish people, "The scribes and Pharisees have sat down in the seat of Moses; therefore whatever they command you to observe, observe and do" (Matthew 23:2-3). Consequently, let no one condemn the priest, even if he appears negligent or indifferent in his commitment to the law; instead, let him receive favor when he interprets the law, for he may struggle with personal shortcomings while articulating God's will. Thus, we should not disrespect divine matters because of human failings.

Those who stray from the flock are vulnerable to wild beasts and become prey for the lost. Consequently, 'It is not permissible to act without the bishop or to observe the Supper of Love; instead, whatever he endorses is commendable to God. Whoever regards the bishop with honor is honored by God; whoever acts covertly apart from the bishop serves the adversary.' It is essential to obey the presbyters also, as they are the apostles of Jesus Christ, our hope, and to seek to please them in all respects, for they are not merely ministers of sustenance, but rather servants of the Church of God, and thus must guard against reproach with vigilance. Honor the deacons as you would Jesus Christ, regard the bishop as you would the Father, and respect the presbyters as the assembly of God, as the band of apostles. Without them, the Church cannot be referred to as such. The Law also affirms this, stating, 'You are to adhere to all that the hierarchs command, so that you do not deviate from the word, neither to the right nor to the left. And anyone who acts out of pride, refusing to obey the sacrifice, let that person perish."