Oomis, knowing if you must follow their decision is also an Halachic Shayla that you ask your Rav. Chances are, a Gadol will tell you iit is your choice but he thinks one way is wiser. However, if he tells you that you must, then he Paskened that you have to follow.
I see that my reference to the Mishna in Shabbos (Sandel Hamesumar) fell under the radar.