Care for and Protect

"shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness" -1 Peter 5.2

Verse 2 begins by focusing the action of a leader; it gives one command, and one description. The first command given to a leader is to shepherd. Shepherds do two things, they provide care for the sheep they tend, and they offer protection from the predators who have a taste for mutton. Shepherds provide care by leading their sheep to green pastures and still waters. They provide care by tending to wounded animals and going after those who fall behind or stray from the group. Shepherds provide protection by being armed and alert; they stand guard over the flock, keeping a keen eye for lions, wolves, and thieves. If a sheep is carried off, they go on a rescue mission, fight the enemy, and rescue the sheep. That is what it means to shepherd.

That command in itself is one that must not be taken lightly, it involves taking on the responsibility for the well-being of others. However, the full weight of this responsibility is realized when the command issued is to shepherd the flock of God. These are simple sheep, they are God's sheep. The creator of the universe is entrusting you with the care of His people. As a parent, there aren't many people I would trust with my girls. I'm a dad of two princesses, and their safety and well-being is my top priority. God view each member of His flock as a loving parent views their child, and yet He has chosen to entrust the care of His flock to human leader. This realization should inspire a leader to be at their best, to always be learning, to always be growing in Christlikeness, and to always be moving closer to God.

Those called to lead, are called to care for and protect God's people. This is the primary role of a leader.


Fight the lion, 1 Peter 5.1-11

TO GOD ALONE BE THE GLORY!