1 Peter 5:3
Verse
Context
Instructions to Elders
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.4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
Sermons
Zac Poonen
J.R. MillerZac Poonen
Keith Malcomson
John GillSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Neither as being lords over God's heritage - This is the voice of St. Peter in his catholic epistle to the catholic Church! According to him there are to be no lords over God's heritage, the bishops and presbyters who are appointed by the head of the Church are to feed the flock, to guide and to defend it, not to fleece and waste it; and they are to look for their reward in another world, and in the approbation of God in their consciences. And in humility, self-abasement, self-renunciation, and heavenly-mindedness, they are to be ensamples, τυποι, types, to the flock, moulds of a heavenly form, into which the spirits and lives of the flock may be cast, that they may come out after a perfect pattern. We need not ask, Does the Church that arrogates to itself the exclusive title of Catholic, and do its supreme pastors, who affect to be the successors of Peter and the vicars of Jesus Christ, act in this way? They are in every sense the reverse of this. But we may ask, Do the other Churches, which profess to be reformed from the abominations of the above, keep the advice of the apostle in their eye? Have they pastors according to God's own heart, who feed them with knowledge and understanding? Jer 3:15. Do they feed themselves, and not the flock? Are they lords over the heritage of Christ, ruling with a high eclesiastico-secular hand, disputing with their flocks about penny-farthing tithes and stipends, rather than contending for the faith once delivered to the saints? Are they heavenly moulds, into which the spirits and conduct of their flocks may be cast? I leave those who are concerned to answer these questions; but I put them, in the name of God, to all the preachers in the land. How many among them properly care for the flock? Even among those reputed evangelical teachers, are there not some who, on their first coming to a parish or a congregation, make it their first business to raise the tithes and the stipends, where, in all good conscience, there was before enough, and more than enough, to provide them and their families with not only the necessaries, but all the conveniences and comforts of life? conveniences and comforts which neither Jesus Christ nor his servant Peter ever enjoyed. And is not the great concern among ministers to seek for those places, parishes, and congregations, where the provision is the most ample, and the work the smallest? Preacher or minister, whosoever thou art, who readest this, apply not the word to thy neighbor, whether he be state-appointed, congregation-appointed, or self-appointed; take all to thyself; mutato nomine de Te fabula narratur. See that thy own heart, views, and conduct be right with God; and then proceed to the next verse.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
being lords--Greek, "lording it": implying pride and oppression. "Not that we have dominion over your faith." God's heritage--Greek, "the inheritances," that is, the portions of the Church committed severally to your pastoral charge [BENGEL]. It is explained by "the flock" in the next clause. However, in Pe1 5:2, "flock of God which is among you," answering to "(God's) heritages" (plural to express the sheep who are God's portion and inheritance, Deu 32:9) committed to you, favors English Version. The flock, as one whole, is God's heritage, or flock in the singular. Regarded in relation to its component sheep, divided among several pastors, it is in the plural "heritages." Compare Act 1:17, Act 1:25, "part" (the same Greek). BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, wrote to Pope Eugene, "Peter could not give thee what he had not: what he had he gave: the care over the Church, not dominion." being--Greek, "becoming." ensamples--the most effective recommendation of precept (Ti1 4:12). Tit 2:7, "patterns." So Jesus. "A monstrosity it is to see the highest rank joined with the meanest mind, the first seat with the lowest life, a grandiloquent tongue with a lazy life, much talking with no fruit" [BERNARD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Neither as being lords over God's heritage,.... Or "clergy"; meaning not ecclesiastical persons, as presbyters, and deacons, who are supposed to be under the government of bishops, though not to be governed with tyranny, and in a haughty, imperious, and arrogant manner; to which sense the Arabic version inclines, rendering the words thus; "not as those who domineer over such that are appointed in the dignities of the priesthood"; but such cannot be designed, because they are presbyters, or elders, which are here exhorted not to use such tyrannical power and authority; wherefore the flock, or church of God, the people of Christ, and members of churches, in common, are here intended: the Ethiopic version renders it, "his own people"; who are the lot, portion, and inheritance of God, and Christ; and moreover, the several churches are the parts, portions, and heritages, for the word is in the plural number, which are assigned to the care of their respective pastors, and elders, in allusion to the land of Canaan, which was distributed by lot: the word "clergy" is common to all the saints, and not to be appropriated to a particular order of men, or to officers of churches; and these are not to be lorded over by their elders, in a domineering and arbitrary way; for though they are set over them in the Lord, and have the rule over them, and should be submitted to, and obeyed in their right and lawful ministrations of the word and ordinances, and are worthy of double honour when they rule well; yet they are not to take upon them an absolute authority over the consciences of men; they are not to teach for doctrines the commandments of men; nor to have the dominion over the faith of men, but to be helpers of their joy; and are not to coin new articles of faith, or enact new laws, and impose them on the churches; but are to teach the doctrines of Christ, and rule according to the laws he has given: but being ensamples to the flock. The Ethiopic version reads, "to his own flock"; that is, the flock of God; and the Vulgate Latin version adds, "heartily"; the meaning is, that they should go before the flock, and set an example to believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity; and be patterns of good works to them, and recommend the doctrines they preach, and the duties they urge, by their own lives and conversations; and particularly should be ensamples to the saints, in liberality and beneficence, in lenity and gentleness, in meekness and humility, in opposition to the vices before warned against.
1 Peter 5:3
Instructions to Elders
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.4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Survey of the New Testament 05 Peter Thru Revelation
By Neil Fraser59646:35HEB 2:31PE 2:211PE 5:3JUD 1:3REV 1:19REV 4:1REV 5:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being a stranger in the world as a Christian. He emphasizes the importance of Christians remembering their earthly citizenship and being subject to the governing authorities. The preacher also addresses the idea of punishment and how Christians should respond to their enemies with love. He then introduces the concept of the "faith once for all deliverance" and encourages the congregation to study the Bible diligently. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's guidance and the hope for a new life in Christ.
The Secret of New-Covenant Ministry
By Zac Poonen02CO 1:42CO 7:11TI 4:12HEB 4:151PE 5:31JN 3:3Zac Poonen preaches on the secret of effective ministry, emphasizing the importance of going through afflictions to receive spiritual education and strength from God. He contrasts the anointing under the old covenant with the new covenant, highlighting the need for inner transformation and overcoming personal struggles. Poonen explains that new covenant ministry requires experiencing God's grace in trials and leading by example in purity, faith, and love, rather than just sharing knowledge from a Bible-school.
Your Little Brother
By J.R. Miller0Sibling ResponsibilityInfluence and GuidanceEXO 2:4PRO 22:6PRO 27:17MAT 18:10GAL 6:1EPH 6:4COL 3:211TI 4:12JAS 3:11PE 5:3J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound responsibility that older siblings have towards their younger brothers, highlighting the significant influence they wield in shaping their character and future. He draws parallels to the biblical story of Miriam and Moses, illustrating how older siblings can act as guardians and role models. Miller urges older siblings to be mindful of their actions, as their behavior serves as a powerful example for their younger siblings. He encourages forming a close friendship, answering questions patiently, and guiding their choices to foster a positive environment. Ultimately, he stresses that older siblings must strive for personal integrity to be worthy of the trust placed in them by their little brothers.
"Order" (Ordenung) That Is Out of Order (Disguised Rebellion)
By Merle Weaver0ECC 5:6COL 2:20HEB 10:24HEB 13:131PE 5:3Merle Weaver addresses the issue of churches creating rules not found in the Bible, leading to unjust excommunications and divisions among believers. He emphasizes the importance of not building fences on God's property but instead walking in the ways of the New Covenant, provoking one another to love and good works. Weaver warns against legalism and the danger of excluding fellow believers based on man-made standards, urging repentance and alignment with God's Word.
(A Spiritual Leader) 15. an Example
By Zac Poonen0Humility in MinistrySpiritual LeadershipMAT 7:1MAT 20:26JHN 13:14ACT 20:17ROM 5:91CO 11:1PHP 3:22TH 2:41PE 5:31JN 2:18Zac Poonen emphasizes that a true spiritual leader should exemplify Christ-like humility, urging followers to connect with Christ rather than with themselves. He warns against leaders who seek personal attachment and recognition, likening them to the spirit of the Antichrist. Poonen reflects on the importance of living a life that demonstrates servanthood, as Paul did in Ephesus, and encourages leaders to focus on being humble examples rather than seeking fame. He stresses the need for discernment in recognizing true godliness and the responsibility of leaders to guide the next generation towards radical discipleship. Ultimately, he calls for repentance and a commitment to embodying the character of Christ in leadership.
Qualification's for Leadership
By Keith Malcomson01TI 3:21TI 3:6TIT 1:61PE 5:3Keith Malcomson preaches on the qualifications of being 'Blameless' according to 1 Timothy 3:2 and Titus 1:6-7, emphasizing the importance of being un-rebukeable, un-accused, and above reproach before God, the Scriptures, and the Church. He delves into the meaning of being 'the husband of one wife,' 'vigilant,' 'sober,' 'of good behaviour,' 'given to hospitality,' and 'apt to teach,' highlighting the essential characteristics for church leaders. Keith Malcomson also discusses the significance of qualities like being 'not given to wine,' 'no striker,' 'not greedy of filthy lucre,' 'patient,' 'not a brawler,' 'not covetous,' 'one that ruleth well his own house,' 'not a novice,' 'having a good report of them which are without,' 'not selfwilled,' 'not soon angry,' 'a lover of good men,' 'just,' 'holy,' 'temperate,' and 'being ensamples.'
1 Peter 5:3
By John Gill0Humility in ServiceChurch LeadershipMAT 20:261CO 11:1PHP 3:171TH 5:121TI 3:22TI 2:24TIT 2:7HEB 13:17JAS 3:11PE 5:3John Gill emphasizes the role of church leaders as examples rather than tyrants, urging them not to dominate over God's heritage but to lead with humility and integrity. He explains that while elders are to be respected and obeyed in their rightful duties, they must not impose their authority in a domineering manner or dictate the faith of the congregation. Instead, they should model the teachings of Christ through their actions and character, serving as patterns of good works and embodying the virtues of charity, faith, and purity. The sermon highlights the importance of pastoral leadership that reflects Christ's love and guidance.
History of the Church > A. D. 100 to 311 – Clergy and Laity
By Philip Schaff0EXO 19:6ACT 1:17ACT 8:41CO 14:11PE 2:51PE 5:3Philip Schaff discusses the transition of the idea of a special priesthood, sacrifice, and altar from Jewish and heathen traditions into the Christian church, leading to the development of a distinct clergy class. He highlights the shift from the apostolic age where preaching and teaching were open to all believers to the emergence of a separate clergy class in the second century, eventually leading to the exaltation and separation of clergy from secular affairs. The term 'clergy' evolved to exclusively refer to Christian ministers, especially bishops, emphasizing their unique role as mediators between God and the laity, with celibacy becoming optional but secular engagements being forbidden after the third century.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Neither as being lords over God's heritage - This is the voice of St. Peter in his catholic epistle to the catholic Church! According to him there are to be no lords over God's heritage, the bishops and presbyters who are appointed by the head of the Church are to feed the flock, to guide and to defend it, not to fleece and waste it; and they are to look for their reward in another world, and in the approbation of God in their consciences. And in humility, self-abasement, self-renunciation, and heavenly-mindedness, they are to be ensamples, τυποι, types, to the flock, moulds of a heavenly form, into which the spirits and lives of the flock may be cast, that they may come out after a perfect pattern. We need not ask, Does the Church that arrogates to itself the exclusive title of Catholic, and do its supreme pastors, who affect to be the successors of Peter and the vicars of Jesus Christ, act in this way? They are in every sense the reverse of this. But we may ask, Do the other Churches, which profess to be reformed from the abominations of the above, keep the advice of the apostle in their eye? Have they pastors according to God's own heart, who feed them with knowledge and understanding? Jer 3:15. Do they feed themselves, and not the flock? Are they lords over the heritage of Christ, ruling with a high eclesiastico-secular hand, disputing with their flocks about penny-farthing tithes and stipends, rather than contending for the faith once delivered to the saints? Are they heavenly moulds, into which the spirits and conduct of their flocks may be cast? I leave those who are concerned to answer these questions; but I put them, in the name of God, to all the preachers in the land. How many among them properly care for the flock? Even among those reputed evangelical teachers, are there not some who, on their first coming to a parish or a congregation, make it their first business to raise the tithes and the stipends, where, in all good conscience, there was before enough, and more than enough, to provide them and their families with not only the necessaries, but all the conveniences and comforts of life? conveniences and comforts which neither Jesus Christ nor his servant Peter ever enjoyed. And is not the great concern among ministers to seek for those places, parishes, and congregations, where the provision is the most ample, and the work the smallest? Preacher or minister, whosoever thou art, who readest this, apply not the word to thy neighbor, whether he be state-appointed, congregation-appointed, or self-appointed; take all to thyself; mutato nomine de Te fabula narratur. See that thy own heart, views, and conduct be right with God; and then proceed to the next verse.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
being lords--Greek, "lording it": implying pride and oppression. "Not that we have dominion over your faith." God's heritage--Greek, "the inheritances," that is, the portions of the Church committed severally to your pastoral charge [BENGEL]. It is explained by "the flock" in the next clause. However, in Pe1 5:2, "flock of God which is among you," answering to "(God's) heritages" (plural to express the sheep who are God's portion and inheritance, Deu 32:9) committed to you, favors English Version. The flock, as one whole, is God's heritage, or flock in the singular. Regarded in relation to its component sheep, divided among several pastors, it is in the plural "heritages." Compare Act 1:17, Act 1:25, "part" (the same Greek). BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, wrote to Pope Eugene, "Peter could not give thee what he had not: what he had he gave: the care over the Church, not dominion." being--Greek, "becoming." ensamples--the most effective recommendation of precept (Ti1 4:12). Tit 2:7, "patterns." So Jesus. "A monstrosity it is to see the highest rank joined with the meanest mind, the first seat with the lowest life, a grandiloquent tongue with a lazy life, much talking with no fruit" [BERNARD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Neither as being lords over God's heritage,.... Or "clergy"; meaning not ecclesiastical persons, as presbyters, and deacons, who are supposed to be under the government of bishops, though not to be governed with tyranny, and in a haughty, imperious, and arrogant manner; to which sense the Arabic version inclines, rendering the words thus; "not as those who domineer over such that are appointed in the dignities of the priesthood"; but such cannot be designed, because they are presbyters, or elders, which are here exhorted not to use such tyrannical power and authority; wherefore the flock, or church of God, the people of Christ, and members of churches, in common, are here intended: the Ethiopic version renders it, "his own people"; who are the lot, portion, and inheritance of God, and Christ; and moreover, the several churches are the parts, portions, and heritages, for the word is in the plural number, which are assigned to the care of their respective pastors, and elders, in allusion to the land of Canaan, which was distributed by lot: the word "clergy" is common to all the saints, and not to be appropriated to a particular order of men, or to officers of churches; and these are not to be lorded over by their elders, in a domineering and arbitrary way; for though they are set over them in the Lord, and have the rule over them, and should be submitted to, and obeyed in their right and lawful ministrations of the word and ordinances, and are worthy of double honour when they rule well; yet they are not to take upon them an absolute authority over the consciences of men; they are not to teach for doctrines the commandments of men; nor to have the dominion over the faith of men, but to be helpers of their joy; and are not to coin new articles of faith, or enact new laws, and impose them on the churches; but are to teach the doctrines of Christ, and rule according to the laws he has given: but being ensamples to the flock. The Ethiopic version reads, "to his own flock"; that is, the flock of God; and the Vulgate Latin version adds, "heartily"; the meaning is, that they should go before the flock, and set an example to believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity; and be patterns of good works to them, and recommend the doctrines they preach, and the duties they urge, by their own lives and conversations; and particularly should be ensamples to the saints, in liberality and beneficence, in lenity and gentleness, in meekness and humility, in opposition to the vices before warned against.