Peter: The Disciple part 7c

The Problem of Lording Over

I Peter 5:2, 3; Mathew 20:24-24

I Peter 5:2-3 “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you but being examples to the flock.”

We talked about the first two temptations of elders in our last posts. They are to serve willingly and to not seek financial or personal gain. Now Peter tell us we are not to lord over those we shepherd. The flock is not to feel they are so oppressed that they are unable to breath. In order the flock to flourish, it needs to feel genuine love, love that does not force, but love that fosters growth, physically but also spiritually. For after all, the flocks concept of their heavenly father is often gained by how earthly leaders portray God’s character.

Christ, speaking on leadership stated. “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.

Christians reading these words have coined the phrase and concept of “servant leadership.” The one who would lead should be the one who serves the most.

Note: The final two installments will be on Sunday at 8:00 am and 8:00 pm.  Thanks for visiting my Blog.

Blessings

Pastor Lester