1 Peter 5:1-4
1 Peter 4:7-19, 1:3-7, 2:24-25
So that the church will grow in holiness,
Christ calls pastors who suffer first and lead with vision and humility.
1. In dark and confusing days, an example to follow is a great gift.
Jesus himself is your first and permanent example!
2. A pastor extends the example of Jesus, both in suffering and
glory.
3. The pastor is inspired and encouraged . . .
-by the apostles,
-by the faithful passing down of Christ’s suffering,
-by the common Christian promise of glory! (v. 1)
4. The pastor must lead
- with knowledge
- with insight and awareness (exercising oversight)
-with internal motivation
-with no reason for shame in his financial gain.
-with no reason for shame in his personal gain.
-with the closeness and connection that comes from leading a
flock of which he is actually a part!
5. The surprising shape of church leadership points us to the gospel.
Step One: a sinner becomes a sheep;
Step Two: he is called out to become a sheep-Shepherd
Step Three: in order to lead until we all meet the Chief Shepherd.
