Read with Me
1 Peter 5:1-4 (HCSB)
Therefore, as a fellow elder and witness to the sufferings of the Messiah and also a participant in the glory about to be revealed, I exhort the elders among you: Shepherd God’s flock among you, not overseeing out of compulsion but freely, according to God’s will; not for the money but eagerly; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.
Listen with Me
Peter understood that he had something that most of the elders in the church did not: he was a first-hand witness of the sufferings of Jesus as well as a first-hand witness of His resurrection and ascension. However, even with those extra qualifications, Peter didn’t place himself above them. He realized that each of them had been placed by God Himself in authority over the Church in their location and had been given responsibility for its welfare. So, he saw them not as his subordinates, but as his peers.
But Peter did possess some wisdom, some experience, and some instruction from Jesus that many of them lacked. So, he wanted to give them a couple of things that they lacked so that they could be more effective.
The greatest advice he could give them was to see themselves and their roles properly. They were called not for their own benefit, but for the good of the sheep under their care.
Every good shepherd is willing to not only watch over their sheep in nice weather or in places where it is safe. He keeps his post and diligence even in the storms, or when surrounded by a pack of wolves. And it is in those more challenging times that the commitment and mettle of the shepherd shows itself most clearly.
Each elder must also ensure that they are fulfilling their role for the right reasons. No one should take the position of elder or leader in the Church out of pressure or a sense of obligation, but only with a clear sense of calling by God Himself. No other motive will serve in challenging and dangerous times. And they should not serve in order to make money, or to gain a high reputation, or for the power and authority such a position might afford. Such motives are easily corrupted by the enemy.
All leaders in the Church must do their jobs realizing that many eyes are upon them at all times. Those in the flock look to them as an example of what they are supposed to be and become. And, even more importantly, the eyes of Jesus, the Great Shepherd, are ever on the under-shepherds, and it is He who will provide the ultimate evaluation of each of them.
Pray with Me
Father, this is an important reminder, not only to those who are elders and leaders in the Church today, but also to those who aspire to be elders and leaders. Especially in challenging, confusing, and even dangerous times and places, the job of the leader is not one of prestige and power, but of God-given authority, and of responsibility for how that authority is used. Jesus Himself laid down His life for the sheep, and elders and leaders, as His under-shepherds, are expected to follow His example. That should make all who are or want to be leaders pause and give their aspirations serious consideration. Thank You for this vital reminder, Lord. Amen.