acknowledge: This may refer to honoring church leaders or recognizing new leaders in the church (1 Corinthians 16:15–16). True leaders work diligently and govern to serve (1 Timothy 4:10; 5:17; Matthew 20:25–28). They lead, help, and protect the church (Romans 16:1–2; 1 Timothy 3:4–5, 12).
who give you instruction: Leaders correct moral errors and protect the church against false doctrine (Acts 20:31; 1 Corinthians 4:14; Colossians 1:28).