There is no doubt as Peter is concluding his first epistle that his mind goes back to his last conversation with Jesus. Three times in John 21 Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love Me?” Each time Peter responded, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” And each time Jesus then said to Peter, “Feed My sheep” (1 Peter 5:2). Peter took this instruction literally as he challenges church leaders to “shepherd the flock of God which is among you.” He understood the life of a shepherd and the primary responsibility of an elder in the church.
The primary responsibility of an elder, or a church leader, is to shepherd the flock that God has allowed him to oversee. A shepherd leads, feeds, and protects those in his charge.
In this text, Peter shares four qualities that church leaders should strive for as they shepherd the flock with whom God has entrusted them. First, shepherds are to be willing. No one is forcing them to do this. A ministry leader should serve from a heart that loves God and loves God’s people as a shepherd loves his sheep and wants to serve them. Second, shepherds are to be selfless. No one should enter ministry with selfish motives or a desire to get rich. The ministry leader’s heart motivation cannot be about money or advancing his ego. His motivation must stem from his desire to please Jesus completely. Third, shepherds are to be gentle. Biblical leadership is not about wielding power over others; it’s about serving them gently. Fourth, shepherds are to be an example. The sobering fact is that ministry leaders are examples whether they intend to be or not. This is seen in how a congregation oftentimes takes on the personality of its leaders.
Finally, Peter also shares the reward to ministry leaders for their hard work. Peter reminded the ministry leaders that they would answer one day to their Chief Shepherd for how they guided His flock. Faithful shepherds are promised a crown of glory, but not like the crown of leaves given to ancient Olympic champions. This crown will not fade away.
Upon reflection, answer the following questions:
- What do you believe is the primary responsibility of a ministry leader? If you agree that it is to shepherd the flock, why? If you believe it is something else, what and why?
- What are some examples of practical ways a ministry leader can shepherd those under his care?
- Does it motivate you as a ministry leader that the Chief Shepherd will present you with a crown of glory that does not fade away? Explain what you think that moment will be like.
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