1 Peter 5:2
Verse
Context
Instructions to Elders
1As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: 2Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness;3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Feed the flock - Do not fleece the flock. Taking the oversight - Επισκοπουντες· Discharging the office of bishops or superintendents. This is another proof that bishop and presbyter were the same order in the apostolic times, though afterwards they were made distinct. Not by constraint - The office was laborious and dangerous, especially in these times of persecution; it is no wonder then that even those who were best qualified for the office should strive to excuse themselves with a genuine Nolo episcopari, "I am unwilling to be a bishop." Not for filthy lucre - Could the office of a bishop, in those early days, and in the time of persecution, be a lucrative office? Does not the Spirit of God lead the apostle to speak these things rather for posterity than for that time? See the notes on Ti1 3:3. But of a ready mind - Doing all for Christ's sake, and through love to immortal souls.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Feed--Greek, "Tend as a shepherd," by discipline and doctrine. Lead, feed, heed: by prayer, exhortation, government, and example. The dignity is marked by the term "elder"; the duties of the office, to tend or oversee, by "bishop." Peter has in mind Christ's injunction to him, "Feed (tend) My sheep . . . Feed (pasture) My lambs" (Joh 21:16). He invites the elders to share with him the same duty (compare Act 20:28). The flock is Christ's. which is among you--While having a concern for all the Church, your special duty is to feed that portion of it "which is among you." oversight--Greek, "bishopric," or duty of bishops, that is, overseer. not by constraint--Necessity is laid upon them, but willingness prevents it being felt, both in undertaking and in fulfilling the duty [BENGEL]. "He is a true presbyter and minister of the counsel of God who doeth and teacheth the things of the Lord, being not accounted righteous merely because he is a presbyter, but because righteous, chosen into the presbytery" [CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA]. willingly--One oldest manuscript, Vulgate, Syriac, and Coptic, add, "as God would have it to be done" (Rom 8:27). not for filthy lucre-- (Isa 56:11; Tit 1:7). of a ready mind--promptly and heartily, without selfish motive of gain-seeking, as the Israelites gave their services willing-heartedly to the sanctuary.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Feed the flock of God which is among you,.... Some read, "as much as in you is"; that is, to the utmost of your power, according to your abilities, referring to the manner of feeding the flock, doing it in the best way they are capable of; but the phrase is rather descriptive of the flock to be fed, which points it out, and distinguishes it from all others, and for which they should have a particular regard; it being the flock, as the Syriac version renders it, which "is delivered unto you"; which was committed to their care, and they were made overseers of, and stood in a special relation to; wherefore it was incumbent on them to regard them, so as they did not, and were not obliged to regard, any other distinct flock: by "the flock of God"; or, "of Christ", as some copies read, is meant, not the whole world, which Philo the Jew (r) calls the greatest and most perfect, , "flock of the true God"; but the church of God, over which they were elders or pastors, consisting of Christ's sheep and lambs, he ordered Peter to feed, as he now does his fellow elders; and because they are the flock of God, which he has chosen, distinguished, and separated from the rest of the world, and has made the care and charge of Christ; put them into his hands, whence they are called the sheep of his hand; which he has purchased with his blood, and effectually called by his grace, and returned them to himself, the Shepherd and Bishop of souls, who before were as sheep going astray, and folded them together in a Gospel church state; all this is a reason, and a strong one, why they should be fed; not with every wind of doctrine, which blows up the pride of human nature, and swells men with vain conceits of themselves; nor with the chaff of human doctrines; nor with trifling and speculative notions; but with knowledge and understanding of divine and evangelical truths, with the words of faith and sound doctrine, with the wholesome words of our Lord Jesus Christ; with the Gospel of the grace of God, which contains milk for babes, and meat for strong men; and with a crucified Christ himself, who is the bread of life, and whose flesh is meat indeed, and his blood drink indeed; by directing them to his person, blood, and righteousness, to live by faith on; by preaching the doctrines of peace and pardon by his blood, atonement and satisfaction by his sacrifice, and justification by his righteousness, and complete salvation by his obedience and death: in short, feeding includes the whole of the pastor's work, the ministry of the word, the administration of ordinances, and the rule and government of the church, in the several branches of it; for the same word signifies to rule as to feed; and which work is further expressed by taking the oversight thereof; that is, of the flock; or "take the care of it", as the Syriac version renders it, and adds, "spiritually"; in a spiritual manner; which is an interpretation of the phrase: an acting the part of a bishop or overseer of it, as the word signifies; looking diligently to it, inspecting into the various cases of the members of the church; using diligence to know the state of the flock, and performing all the offices of a careful shepherd; as feeding the flock; and not themselves; strengthening the diseased; healing the sick; binding up that which was broken; bringing again that which was driven away, and seeking that which was lost; watching over them that they go not astray; and restoring of them in the spirit of meekness, when they are gone out of the way; and overlooking both their practices and their principles; admonishing, reproving them for sin, as the case requires; and preserving them, as much as in them lies, from wolves, and beasts of prey; from false teachers, and from all errors and heresies: all which is to be done, not by constraint; or with force, in a rigorous and severe manner; for this may be understood actively of pastors not forcing their flock, over driving them, or ruling them with force and cruelty, complained of in Eze 34:4 or passively, of their being forced to feed the flock, and superintend it; as such may be said to be, who enter into the ministry, and continue in it, because obliged to it for want of a livelihood, and not knowing how to get one any other way; or through the pressing instances of relations, acquaintance, and friends; this ought not to be a matter of necessity, but of choice; they should be induced to it by no other necessity than what Christ has laid upon them, by calling them to the work, and furnishing them for it with the gifts of his Spirit; and should engage and continue in it by no other constraint than that of his love; wherefore it follows, but willingly. The Vulgate Latin version adds, "according to God", and so some copies; according to the will of God, and agreeably to his word; and the Ethiopic version renders it, "with equity for God"; with all uprightness and integrity, for the sake of the honour and glory of God; this should be done with all a man's heart and soul, and should spring from pure love to Christ; for no man is fit to feed Christ's lambs and sheep but those who sincerely love him; see Joh 21:15, and from a cordial and affectionate concern for the good of souls; and from, an hearty desire unto, and delight in, the work itself; otherwise all he does will be as a task and burden; he will do it grudgingly, and with negligence, and will murmur under it, at least secretly. The Arabic version renders it, "watching, not forced watches, but willing ones". This contrast of phrases seems to be Jewish, or Rabbinical (s); it is a tradition of the Rabbans; "blood which is defiled, and they sprinkle it ignorantly, it is accepted; presumptuously, not accepted; of what things are these said? of a private person; but of a congregation, whether ignorantly or presumptuously, it is accepted; and of a stranger, whether ignorantly or presumptuously, , "whether by constraint or willingly", it is not accepted:'' it follows here, not for filthy lucre; not from a covetous disposition, which is a filthy one; and for the sake of gaining money, and amassing wealth and riches, as the false prophets in Isaiah's time, who were never satisfied; and the false teachers in the apostle's time, who, through covetousness, made merchandise of men, and supposed that gain was godliness; whereas there is no such thing as serving God and mammon; and as the work of the ministry should not be entered upon, and continued in, with any such sordid view; so neither for the sake of gaining glory and applause, a presidency, and chief place in the churches, and a name among the ministers of the Gospel, and credit and esteem among men: but of a ready mind; or, "from the whole heart", as the Syriac version renders it; and in a cheerful view of reproaches and persecutions, of the loss of credit and reputation, of worldly substance, and of life itself; and with a sincere concern for the glory of God, and the good of immortal souls; being ready to do everything with cheerfulness, that may contribute to either of these. The Ethiopic version renders it, "in the fulness of your heart with joy". (r) De Agricultura, p. 195. (s) T. Bab. Menachot, fol. 25. 1. Vid. T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 54. 1. & Maimon. Hilch. Issure Mizbeach, c. 4. sect. 5, 6.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:2 Care for the flock (literally Shepherd the flock): Our word pastor comes from New Testament imagery of a shepherd pasturing his flock.
1 Peter 5:2
Instructions to Elders
1As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: 2Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness;3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Titus - Part 6): Set in Order the Things That Are Wanting
By A.W. Tozer3.9K39:05TitusMAT 6:33ACT 6:4EPH 4:141TI 3:1TIT 1:5HEB 6:11PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of organization and structure in the church. He uses the example of a man with a physical disability to illustrate the need for order and organization in the body of Christ. The speaker also emphasizes the role of certain individuals who are called by God to dedicate their time to spiritual activities. He mentions the example of John of the Nedward, who spent 13 hours a day in prayer, Bible study, and writing. The speaker also highlights the importance of recognizing spiritual authority in the church, but cautions against giving any individual dictatorial power. He references the apostle Peter's words about being examples and shepherds to the flock. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the letter to Titus and the importance of setting things in order and appointing elders in every city.
(Through the Bible) 1 Chronicles 1-11
By Chuck Smith3.4K53:04Through The BiblePSA 78:70JER 3:151PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of farsightedness and not being deceived by immediate fulfillment offered by Satan. He warns against turning aside from God's path, as it always leads to grief in the end. The speaker shares stories of people who have experienced grief because they sought fulfillment outside of God's plan. He also references biblical examples, such as King David and the story of Korah, to illustrate the consequences of disobedience and rebellion against God.
Rehoboam: If You Will Be Kind
By Russell Kelfer1.8K25:14Rehoboam2CH 9:302CH 10:1JAS 4:61PE 5:21PE 5:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the downfall of a young king who failed to lead with kindness. The sermon is divided into four parts, starting with the end of an era and the young king's attempt to step into the shoes of the wisest man who ever lived. Despite the advice of experienced individuals, the king chooses to listen to his young and inexperienced friends, leading to the destruction of his kingdom. The sermon emphasizes the importance of kindness in leadership, drawing from the biblical teachings of 1 Peter 5:2-6. The preacher encourages leaders to tend, nurture, and guide their followers willingly and cheerfully, rather than being domineering or arrogant.
Law & Grace
By Chuck Smith1.7K48:112CH 16:9PSA 100:2ACT 15:32CO 3:171PE 5:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is able and willing to meet all our needs. He highlights that God's eyes are constantly searching the earth for those whose hearts are in tune with Him, so that He can show Himself strong on their behalf. The preacher encourages the audience to get their hearts in tune with God in order to receive His blessings and ministry. He also acknowledges the challenge of living in a fast-paced world, where it is difficult to find time for spiritual communion and meditation. The sermon includes references to Bible verses, such as Galatians 5:1, which urges believers to stand fast in the liberty that Christ has given them and not be entangled again in bondage.
Testimony in 1976 at Age 75
By Vance Havner1.7K57:17TestimonyPSA 23:1MAT 4:19MAT 6:25MAT 6:33MAT 9:37MAT 16:23MAT 17:4MAT 19:27MAT 26:33MAT 26:35MAT 28:19MRK 5:30JHN 13:8JHN 21:15JHN 21:17ACT 2:38ACT 3:61CO 1:272CO 12:91PE 5:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of grace and its various forms. He references Isaiah 40:31 and emphasizes the limitless love, grace, and power of God. The preacher also shares his personal experience of loneliness and tears, but testifies to the compensation he has received from God. He urges ministers and Christian workers to seek a new touch from God and to preach as if Jesus died yesterday and rose again today. The sermon concludes with the reminder that although many things in the world may change, the importance of salvation and the need for a strong faith remain constant.
Fellowship - Part 4 (Authority)
By Lance Lambert1.5K1:11:32Fellowship1PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus Christ as the head of the church. He encourages believers to gather together before the Lord and establish their authority over Satan and any other spiritual forces. The speaker also highlights the principle of continuity, emphasizing that all that God has recovered in the history of the church is our heritage and should not be despised or rejected. The sermon concludes with the apostle Paul's words, highlighting the sacrificial and humble nature of true apostolic authority and urging believers to hold fast to the head, Jesus Christ, in order to overcome any problems or differences among leaders.
The Pastor's Charge, Part 2
By C.J. Mahaney1.2K1:06:221PE 5:2This sermon from 1 Peter chapter 5 emphasizes the importance of shepherding the flock of God willingly, joyfully, eagerly, and humbly. It addresses the temptations pastors face, such as serving under compulsion, seeking personal gain, and domineering over others. The sermon highlights the need for pastors to lead by example, especially in humility, and points to the future reward of receiving the unfading crown of glory from the chief shepherd upon his return.
Being European 1994
By George Verwer5371:05:20MissionsMAT 9:35MAT 9:37ACT 13:4ACT 13:91PE 5:21PE 5:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of feeding and overseeing the flock of God with willingness and a ready mind. He encourages humility and submission to one another, as God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. The speaker also highlights the significance of sending in missions, stating that sending is just as important as going. He shares his own testimony of how one woman's prayers and commitment to sharing the Gospel led to the distribution of the Word of God to over 500 million people through OM teams in 60 nations.
Love Flowing Down
By Don Godfrey51842:53LovePSA 23:1PSA 100:3ISA 53:6MAT 22:39JHN 1:12JHN 13:341PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a leader and shepherd in our lives. He compares human beings to sheep, highlighting our need for guidance and direction. The speaker also reflects on his own journey of realizing the need for a Lord in his life, rather than just a Savior. He emphasizes the power of love and the transformation it brings when we allow God's love to fill our hearts. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the Holy Spirit's role in producing love, joy, and peace in our lives.
Skyland Conference 1980-06 Christian Stewardship
By Stan Ford46639:171PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker begins by addressing the time constraints for musical performances in the program, urging participants to keep their solos or duets to two and a half minutes. The speaker then leads a prayer, asking for guidance and blessings during the Skyline Bible Conference. The sermon then shifts to the story of Isaac, who dug a well in the valley of Gira, hoping it would bring prosperity. However, the herdsmen of Gura claimed the well as their own, causing disappointment for Isaac. The speaker emphasizes the importance of turning to the Word of God during times of disappointment and encourages prayer for those facing economic depression.
Leadership and Ministry Training (Question and Answer)
By Stephen Kaung28434:52PRO 27:17MAT 28:19JHN 14:261CO 12:12EPH 4:11COL 3:162TI 2:22TI 3:16HEB 13:171PE 5:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of shepherding others, starting with unbelievers if you are a new believer, and progressing to guiding and helping fellow believers. It discusses the responsibility of every believer to engage in shepherding, not being self-centered but useful in God's hands. The sermon also touches on the significance of interpreting the Bible beyond exact quotations, focusing on the spirit of the Word and personal experiences. Lastly, it explores the concept of discipleship, cautioning against humanly arranged discipleship and highlighting the need for divine guidance in mentoring relationships.
James Bautie, Student
By Alexander Whyte11CO 2:4PHP 2:31TI 4:162TI 2:151PE 5:2Alexander Whyte preaches about the challenges faced by divinity students in transitioning to become effective ministers, emphasizing the need for pastoral and experimental theology education to equip students for real-life pastoral difficulties. He highlights the example of James Beattie, a divinity student of the seventeenth century, who struggled with his mental deficiencies and spiritual unfitness for ministry. Whyte discusses Beattie's journey of self-examination, including his struggle with loving God purely and his quest for assurance in his gifts and graces before entering the ministry.
The Christian Urged to an Express Act of Self-Dedication to the Service of God
By Philip Doddridge0DEU 26:17ECC 5:2LUK 18:13ROM 6:13ROM 12:12CO 9:7EPH 2:192TI 1:121PE 5:2Philip Doddridge preaches about the importance of making a solemn surrender of oneself to God, urging believers to declare their dedication in the divine presence with deliberate, cheerful, entire, perpetual, and solemn expressions. The surrender should encompass all aspects of life, including time, possessions, influence, and desires, with a heartfelt desire to be entirely God's. Doddridge emphasizes the need for a written instrument of dedication, signed and declared before God in a season of extraordinary devotion, to serve as a reminder and anchor in times of temptation and affliction.
An Account of the Several Annual Conferences, and of the General Conference of 1792
By Nathan Bangs0PRO 16:31CO 1:101CO 14:331CO 14:40EPH 4:31TI 4:161TI 6:112TI 4:21PE 3:81PE 5:2Nathan Bangs preaches about the early struggles and triumphs of Methodism in America, highlighting the dedication of Bishop Asbury in traveling extensively to preach and extend the work of God, facing hardships and dangers along the way. As Methodism spread to newly settled territories like Tennessee, the preachers encountered challenges, including threats from Indians and harsh living conditions. The General Conference of 1792 was convened in Baltimore to address the need for unity and central authority in the Methodist Church, leading to the establishment of rules and regulations to govern the conduct of bishops, preachers, and members. The conference also witnessed the secession of James O'Kelly, who formed a separate party known as the 'Republican Methodists,' causing division and confusion but ultimately fading into obscurity.
In the Constituting of an Abbess
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 11:31TI 3:2TIT 1:71PE 5:2St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of selecting a worthy leader for the role of Abbess, highlighting the need for the community to choose someone based on merit of life and wisdom of doctrine, rather than personal preferences. He warns against the dangers of allowing a leader who condones vices, urging the community to act with zeal for God and integrity in selecting a suitable steward for the house of God.
Some Queries Concerning Compulsion in Religion
By Isaac Penington0ISA 40:15MAT 22:21JHN 4:24ACT 4:19ROM 14:232CO 9:71PE 5:2Isaac Penington raises thought-provoking queries regarding compulsion in religion, emphasizing the importance of being fully persuaded in one's soul about the worship offered to God. He questions whether worship compelled against one's beliefs is acceptable to the Lord and highlights the spiritual nature of Christ's kingdom, where compulsion has no place. Penington urges for serious consideration on the type of worship that pleases corrupt individuals versus those with tender consciences seeking truth and virtue in worship.
Our Strength and Our Weakness
By F.G. Allen01CO 16:13EPH 4:15HEB 11:1HEB 11:341PE 5:2F.G. Allen preaches about the strength that comes from faith, highlighting how individuals in the Bible were made strong out of weakness through their faith in God. He emphasizes the importance of a life of faith leading to growth and transformation. Allen discusses the elements of strength in their plea for restoration, focusing on the need to adhere to the original model of the Church as left by the Apostles. He also addresses the elements of weakness, such as losing sight of their distinctive plea, issues with church government, lack of co-operation in church work, and a need for personal consecration to the work.
From the Death of Bishop Asbury to the Close of the General Conference of 1816
By Nathan Bangs0ACT 20:281CO 9:141TI 3:22TI 2:15TIT 1:7JAS 1:271PE 5:2Nathan Bangs preaches about the challenges faced by the Methodist Episcopal Church, including controversies with the British connection over missions in Canada, the need for additional bishops, and the importance of providing adequate support for the ministry to prevent locations and ensure qualified ministers. The conference addresses the issue of locations, partial locations, and the lack of ministerial qualifications, recommending measures to strengthen the itinerancy and secure a succession of holy and zealous ministers. The report also emphasizes the importance of providing support for distressed preachers, their families, and widows, as well as establishing a fund for their welfare.
The Disciple's Watching for Souls
By John Henry Jowett0PSA 126:5PRO 11:30ISA 40:31MAT 4:191CO 9:22EPH 4:11PHP 4:42TI 2:151PE 5:2John Henry Jowett emphasizes the serious work of watching for souls, acknowledging the inadequacy of preachers and the need for continuous improvement in their ministry. Reflecting on Thomas Boston's earnest desire to be a fisher of men, Jowett highlights the importance of being Christ-formed and Christ-given in our ministry. He urges preachers to keep themselves out of sight, cultivate cheeriness and praise, study the individuals they are trying to reach, learn from experienced fishers like John Wesley and the Salvation Army, and focus on the joy of winning souls to maintain passion and drive in their ministry.
Proposals for Reform Iii
By Martin Luther0PRO 1:7PRO 22:7ROM 12:21CO 6:192TI 3:161PE 5:2Martin Luther preaches about the urgent need for reform in universities, criticizing the dominance of Aristotle's teachings over Christian faith and the lack of focus on Holy Scriptures. He calls for the abandonment of Aristotle's works and a thorough reformation in universities to prioritize the study of languages, mathematics, history, and most importantly, the Bible. Luther also addresses the abuse of power by the papacy in bestowing the Roman Empire on the Germans, highlighting the need for wise and God-fearing rulers to govern justly. He further critiques the clergy and temporal estate for various failings, including extravagance in dress, spice trade, annuities, abuse of eating and drinking, and the existence of houses of prostitution, urging for societal reforms and a return to Christian values.
Wait Low in His Fear
By George Fox0PRO 15:331CO 14:40GAL 6:1JAS 4:101PE 5:2George Fox emphasizes the importance of gathering in the Fear of the Lord, being attentive to the Light of Jesus Christ, and waiting in humility to experience the Life and Power of Truth in community. He urges overseers to be diligent in watching over the church, supporting the weak, and promoting purity among believers. Fox warns against pride, hastiness, and following personal wills, highlighting the need to wait on the Lord for clear guidance and to remain faithful in one's designated place of service.
The Papal and Hierarchial System - Part 4
By Joseph John Gurney0MAT 18:15JHN 20:23ACT 15:221CO 5:41TI 2:5HEB 7:26HEB 13:15JAS 5:161PE 5:2Joseph John Gurney preaches about the spiritual power of the priesthood, highlighting the dangers of the hierarchy's usurpation of authority and the abuse of spiritual power by the clergy, particularly under the papal system. He emphasizes the importance of Christ being the sole High Priest and the ultimate authority in the Church, rejecting the idea of human representatives or viceroys. Gurney delves into the scriptural basis for the priesthood, refuting the notions of absolution through human priests and the sacrificial system of the mass, asserting that Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is the only propitiation for sin. He also addresses the issue of miracles in the context of the papacy, distinguishing between the genuine miracles of the New Testament and the deceptive wonders claimed by the Roman Catholic Church.
The Burden of Sin Deplored
By Thomas Reade0EXO 14:15MAT 22:371CO 13:42CO 5:4PHP 3:12JAS 4:71PE 5:2REV 2:10REV 3:21Thomas Reade preaches about the burden of sin, highlighting how both the worldly-minded and the formalist can be insensible to the evil of sin, despite outward expressions of repentance. He emphasizes the importance of true repentance, groaning under the weight of sin, and the need for genuine love for God and others. Reade also addresses the dangers of self-righteousness, idolatry, and the misuse of ecclesiastical authority, contrasting it with the true authority of Christ. He urges believers to strive for holiness, to love God wholeheartedly, and to press on towards perfection in Christ, relying on His grace and mercy.
Ministers of Christ
By A.B. Simpson0Shepherding the FlockChristian Ministry1PE 5:2A.B. Simpson emphasizes the role of ministers as shepherds of God's flock, urging them to lead with humility, sincerity, and a deep connection to God's Word. He reflects on Peter's commission to 'feed my sheep,' highlighting the importance of delivering God's message with divine authority and the power of the Holy Spirit. Simpson stresses that true ministry is characterized by a spirit of service, deep sympathy for the suffering, and a commitment to living a life that exemplifies the teachings of Christ. He concludes with the promise of a lasting reward for faithful ministers, a crown of glory that will not fade away, as they invest in the lives of those they serve. The sermon calls for a return to the core values of ministry, focusing on prayer, humility, and genuine love for the flock.
The Reformed Pastor - Dedication
By Richard Baxter0NUM 32:23PRO 28:13ISA 41:10MAT 16:231CO 15:58EPH 4:3HEB 10:24JAS 4:171PE 5:2Richard Baxter addresses the faithful ministers of Christ in Britain and Ireland, urging them to engage in the work of catechizing and private instruction as a solemn duty for the welfare of the Church and the salvation of souls. He emphasizes the importance of humbling themselves before the Lord, confessing their sins, and openly addressing the sins of the ministry to promote true reformation. Baxter encourages ministers to diligently pursue catechizing, Church discipline, and unity among themselves, highlighting the necessity of these actions for the advancement of the Church and the fulfillment of their calling.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Feed the flock - Do not fleece the flock. Taking the oversight - Επισκοπουντες· Discharging the office of bishops or superintendents. This is another proof that bishop and presbyter were the same order in the apostolic times, though afterwards they were made distinct. Not by constraint - The office was laborious and dangerous, especially in these times of persecution; it is no wonder then that even those who were best qualified for the office should strive to excuse themselves with a genuine Nolo episcopari, "I am unwilling to be a bishop." Not for filthy lucre - Could the office of a bishop, in those early days, and in the time of persecution, be a lucrative office? Does not the Spirit of God lead the apostle to speak these things rather for posterity than for that time? See the notes on Ti1 3:3. But of a ready mind - Doing all for Christ's sake, and through love to immortal souls.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Feed--Greek, "Tend as a shepherd," by discipline and doctrine. Lead, feed, heed: by prayer, exhortation, government, and example. The dignity is marked by the term "elder"; the duties of the office, to tend or oversee, by "bishop." Peter has in mind Christ's injunction to him, "Feed (tend) My sheep . . . Feed (pasture) My lambs" (Joh 21:16). He invites the elders to share with him the same duty (compare Act 20:28). The flock is Christ's. which is among you--While having a concern for all the Church, your special duty is to feed that portion of it "which is among you." oversight--Greek, "bishopric," or duty of bishops, that is, overseer. not by constraint--Necessity is laid upon them, but willingness prevents it being felt, both in undertaking and in fulfilling the duty [BENGEL]. "He is a true presbyter and minister of the counsel of God who doeth and teacheth the things of the Lord, being not accounted righteous merely because he is a presbyter, but because righteous, chosen into the presbytery" [CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA]. willingly--One oldest manuscript, Vulgate, Syriac, and Coptic, add, "as God would have it to be done" (Rom 8:27). not for filthy lucre-- (Isa 56:11; Tit 1:7). of a ready mind--promptly and heartily, without selfish motive of gain-seeking, as the Israelites gave their services willing-heartedly to the sanctuary.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Feed the flock of God which is among you,.... Some read, "as much as in you is"; that is, to the utmost of your power, according to your abilities, referring to the manner of feeding the flock, doing it in the best way they are capable of; but the phrase is rather descriptive of the flock to be fed, which points it out, and distinguishes it from all others, and for which they should have a particular regard; it being the flock, as the Syriac version renders it, which "is delivered unto you"; which was committed to their care, and they were made overseers of, and stood in a special relation to; wherefore it was incumbent on them to regard them, so as they did not, and were not obliged to regard, any other distinct flock: by "the flock of God"; or, "of Christ", as some copies read, is meant, not the whole world, which Philo the Jew (r) calls the greatest and most perfect, , "flock of the true God"; but the church of God, over which they were elders or pastors, consisting of Christ's sheep and lambs, he ordered Peter to feed, as he now does his fellow elders; and because they are the flock of God, which he has chosen, distinguished, and separated from the rest of the world, and has made the care and charge of Christ; put them into his hands, whence they are called the sheep of his hand; which he has purchased with his blood, and effectually called by his grace, and returned them to himself, the Shepherd and Bishop of souls, who before were as sheep going astray, and folded them together in a Gospel church state; all this is a reason, and a strong one, why they should be fed; not with every wind of doctrine, which blows up the pride of human nature, and swells men with vain conceits of themselves; nor with the chaff of human doctrines; nor with trifling and speculative notions; but with knowledge and understanding of divine and evangelical truths, with the words of faith and sound doctrine, with the wholesome words of our Lord Jesus Christ; with the Gospel of the grace of God, which contains milk for babes, and meat for strong men; and with a crucified Christ himself, who is the bread of life, and whose flesh is meat indeed, and his blood drink indeed; by directing them to his person, blood, and righteousness, to live by faith on; by preaching the doctrines of peace and pardon by his blood, atonement and satisfaction by his sacrifice, and justification by his righteousness, and complete salvation by his obedience and death: in short, feeding includes the whole of the pastor's work, the ministry of the word, the administration of ordinances, and the rule and government of the church, in the several branches of it; for the same word signifies to rule as to feed; and which work is further expressed by taking the oversight thereof; that is, of the flock; or "take the care of it", as the Syriac version renders it, and adds, "spiritually"; in a spiritual manner; which is an interpretation of the phrase: an acting the part of a bishop or overseer of it, as the word signifies; looking diligently to it, inspecting into the various cases of the members of the church; using diligence to know the state of the flock, and performing all the offices of a careful shepherd; as feeding the flock; and not themselves; strengthening the diseased; healing the sick; binding up that which was broken; bringing again that which was driven away, and seeking that which was lost; watching over them that they go not astray; and restoring of them in the spirit of meekness, when they are gone out of the way; and overlooking both their practices and their principles; admonishing, reproving them for sin, as the case requires; and preserving them, as much as in them lies, from wolves, and beasts of prey; from false teachers, and from all errors and heresies: all which is to be done, not by constraint; or with force, in a rigorous and severe manner; for this may be understood actively of pastors not forcing their flock, over driving them, or ruling them with force and cruelty, complained of in Eze 34:4 or passively, of their being forced to feed the flock, and superintend it; as such may be said to be, who enter into the ministry, and continue in it, because obliged to it for want of a livelihood, and not knowing how to get one any other way; or through the pressing instances of relations, acquaintance, and friends; this ought not to be a matter of necessity, but of choice; they should be induced to it by no other necessity than what Christ has laid upon them, by calling them to the work, and furnishing them for it with the gifts of his Spirit; and should engage and continue in it by no other constraint than that of his love; wherefore it follows, but willingly. The Vulgate Latin version adds, "according to God", and so some copies; according to the will of God, and agreeably to his word; and the Ethiopic version renders it, "with equity for God"; with all uprightness and integrity, for the sake of the honour and glory of God; this should be done with all a man's heart and soul, and should spring from pure love to Christ; for no man is fit to feed Christ's lambs and sheep but those who sincerely love him; see Joh 21:15, and from a cordial and affectionate concern for the good of souls; and from, an hearty desire unto, and delight in, the work itself; otherwise all he does will be as a task and burden; he will do it grudgingly, and with negligence, and will murmur under it, at least secretly. The Arabic version renders it, "watching, not forced watches, but willing ones". This contrast of phrases seems to be Jewish, or Rabbinical (s); it is a tradition of the Rabbans; "blood which is defiled, and they sprinkle it ignorantly, it is accepted; presumptuously, not accepted; of what things are these said? of a private person; but of a congregation, whether ignorantly or presumptuously, it is accepted; and of a stranger, whether ignorantly or presumptuously, , "whether by constraint or willingly", it is not accepted:'' it follows here, not for filthy lucre; not from a covetous disposition, which is a filthy one; and for the sake of gaining money, and amassing wealth and riches, as the false prophets in Isaiah's time, who were never satisfied; and the false teachers in the apostle's time, who, through covetousness, made merchandise of men, and supposed that gain was godliness; whereas there is no such thing as serving God and mammon; and as the work of the ministry should not be entered upon, and continued in, with any such sordid view; so neither for the sake of gaining glory and applause, a presidency, and chief place in the churches, and a name among the ministers of the Gospel, and credit and esteem among men: but of a ready mind; or, "from the whole heart", as the Syriac version renders it; and in a cheerful view of reproaches and persecutions, of the loss of credit and reputation, of worldly substance, and of life itself; and with a sincere concern for the glory of God, and the good of immortal souls; being ready to do everything with cheerfulness, that may contribute to either of these. The Ethiopic version renders it, "in the fulness of your heart with joy". (r) De Agricultura, p. 195. (s) T. Bab. Menachot, fol. 25. 1. Vid. T. Bab. Avoda Zara, fol. 54. 1. & Maimon. Hilch. Issure Mizbeach, c. 4. sect. 5, 6.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:2 Care for the flock (literally Shepherd the flock): Our word pastor comes from New Testament imagery of a shepherd pasturing his flock.