READ: 1 Pet. 5:1-4: The elders … Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, … nor as being lords … but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.
Elders receive their ministry from Christ to shepherd the flock in His service. They must not use their authority for personal gain, but should position themselves as servants. Peter speaks as a fellow elder and witness of Christ’s suffering; he saw with his own eyes how Christ gave Himself up for His people.
An elder has in Christ the example of a shepherd who sacrifices himself. Peter, along with the others, is looking forward to the inheritance that is reserved for them, the glory that Christ earned through His suffering and death, a glory that will only be achieved through suffering.
From his position as a fellow elder and witness, Peter calls on the elders to devote themselves to their office, not under compulsion, but voluntarily, without reluctance but with dedication, without the motive of profit, but selflessly, and not ruling, but serving as examples (see Mark 10:42-45).
The Lord entrusts them with the local part of His flock (v.2) to shepherd, guide, govern, protect, and care for in a way that pleases Him. They must be led by their love for the Lord, with the prospect of the appearance of the Chief Shepherd (v.4). He is the Owner of the entire flock and watches over them.
The elders do their work only on His behalf, not for their own will or benefit. They are dependent on Him and must be accountable to Him. If they serve faithfully, He will reward them with the unfading, eternal crown of glory.
Are there limits to the authority of an elder?
Sìnging: Ps. 135:1