The Shepherding We Need

1 Peter 5:1-5 – God gathers His people together because He knows sheep need a shepherd. In His wisdom, He calls leaders to imitate the chief Shepherd so they can serve as examples to the entire flock.

• Life is too challenging to attempt alone, so God gathers us in flocks under the care of shepherds (4:19-5:1).
• The call to ministry is a hybrid of suffering and glory every single day (5:1).

• “Shepherd” – Pastors are called to do what is necessary for a flock’s progression, provision, and protection (5:2).
• “Among you” – You can’t be called a shepherd if you don’t smell like sheep (5:2).
• “Willingly” – If someone talks you into ministry, the work alone will talk you out of it (5:2).
• “Eagerly” – If you enter the ministry for financial gain, you will either be disappointed or disqualified (5:2).
• “Examples” – The most helpful pastors are those you want to follow (5:3).

• The true rewards of ministry won’t be experienced in this life (5:4).
• A lack of humility among church members creates an abundance of church conflicts (5:5).

• Potential Ministers – If God has called you to the ministry, don’t settle for any other activity.
• Current Leaders – Seek God’s approval over any other’s affirmation.
• Curious Visitors – Don’t waste your imperfect life looking for a perfect church.
• Church Members – Beware of baptizing business behaviors or political precedents to impose them on the church.