Guiding Elders

1 Peter 5:1-4 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
 
WHEN someone asks you, “How do you know Jesus did all the Bible says?” You can reply, “Peter said so.” As he continues to address the churches of Asia Minor, Peter tells hem he is a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed. We have mentioned this earlier, and it bears repeating. The apostles were eye witnesses to Jesus’ ministry from his baptism to his ascension. Peter, James and John were granted some special privileges, too, as Jesus appointed them to see the Transfiguration. And even in his denial of Jesus, Peter witnessed some of the brutality Jesus experienced during his first hours of trial and torture to the cross.
   Emphasizing this to the church, Peter confirmed his authority to teach them. Why should they listen to him? He is a witness, and he is an elder, a pastor speaking to other pastors. Yes, Peter had a special and unique place in God’s salvation plan. Why should we, why should the world listen to him? He is an eyewitness of the Son of God come to earth to save.
   Peter is also qual to other church elders – men who taught the Scriptures. Regardless of the position to which God appoints you in his church, you are equal to all under God. The crucified, risen Jesus, Lord of life, called the apostles his brothers. John 20:17 “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” When we understand each of us in the church are sons and daughters of the Father in heaven, we will have a greater willingness to serve and to care for each other.
   Peter directed the elders to care for their sisters and brothers as shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care. This was to be done in the spirit of faithfulness and goodness. As God had chosen them to this position, they were to be willing servants, as God wants you to be. Elders must be an example to the church of Gol’s character. Serve as Jesus served. Loved as Jesus loved.
   Such faithfulness brings reward. When you are as Jesus, you will be with Jesus in his eternal glory.