It is an interesting exercise to look at job postings for pastors. Often you see churches that are looking for a pastor who is “an influencer,” “a captivating speaker,” or “a dynamic leader.” We highlight the leadership values of our culture.
I think Peter would have some cautionary advice for us! In today’s reading, Peter addresses elders in the church. “Elders” here does not refer to age but position. Elders are church leaders. Peter addresses two central questions: Why should they serve? and How should they serve? But first, he gives a helpful perspective on the role of elder. Peter challenges elders to “be shepherds of God’s flock” (v. 2). They are to see their role as nurturing, caring, and protective. They are to model the caring leadership God demonstrated toward His people (Ps. 23; John 10:1–18). They are also to remember that it is “God’s flock” they oversee. They will one day give an account to Him.
So, why should someone take up this responsibility? They should not do it out of compulsion or for money (v. 2). Following Jesus’ teaching, many churches compensated their leaders (Matt. 10:10). Elders also oversaw the money collected for the poor (Acts 5:1–5; 2 Cor. 8:20). This meant there were opportunities to abuse their role for financial gain. Peter warns against this.
Elders were not to be domineering over those entrusted to their care (v. 3). Instead, they were to lead through example (v. 3; see also Mark 10:42– 45). Paul modeled this: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Their goal should be “the crown of glory that will never fade away” (v. 4). They are to have an eternal perspective on their work.
Go Deeper
How does the role of elder or pastor function in your church? What values have some placed on those roles that stray from the Bible’s instruction?
Pray with Us
Loving Father, thank You for being the Good Shepherd, and establishing earthly shepherds who care for us. Please help us be an encouragement to our pastors as they nurture us.
Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them.1 Peter 5:2
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