Luke 15:18
I will get up and go to my father and say to him, Father, I have sinned against [the God of] heaven and against you.
1 Thessalonians 4:8
So, the person who rejects [this exhortation] is not [merely] rejecting what man says but God [Himself], who gives His Holy Spirit to you.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
But we urge you, brothers, to know [i.e., appreciate and respect] those who work hard among you, and who lead you and warn you in [the fellowship of] the Lord. [Note: These men were probably the elders. See Acts 20:28; Heb. 13:17].
Hebrews 13:7
Remember your leaders who told you God's message. [Note: This probably refers to former preachers who had since died]. Consider the outcome of the way they lived and imitate their faith.