How does 1 Peter 5:3 connect with Jesus' teachings on servant leadership? Setting the Scene 1 Peter 5:3: “not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” Peter, an eyewitness to Jesus, urges church leaders to shepherd by example rather than domination. This mirrors the Master’s own words and deeds. Jesus’ Model of Servant Leadership • Mark 10:42-45—Jesus contrasts pagan “lording it over” with His call to serve: “It shall not be this way among you… the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” • Luke 22:26-27—“The one who rules [must be] like the one who serves… I am among you as One who serves.” • John 13:14-15—After washing the disciples’ feet, He says, “I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you.” • Philippians 2:5-7—Christ “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant,” showing true greatness through humility. Direct Parallels between 1 Peter 5:3 and Jesus’ Teaching • “Not lording it over” ⇢ “You know that those regarded as rulers… lord it over them” (Mark 10:42). • “Those entrusted to you” ⇢ Jesus entrusts His flock to under-shepherds (John 21:15-17: “Feed My sheep”). • “Being examples” ⇢ Jesus: “I have set you an example” (John 13:15). • Shepherd imagery ⇢ Jesus the “Chief Shepherd” (1 Peter 5:4) and “Good Shepherd” (John 10:11). Why the Connection Matters • Authority is stewardship, not ownership. Leaders manage what belongs to Christ. • Influence flows from imitation, not intimidation—people follow what they see. • True greatness is measured by sacrifice, not status. Additional Scriptural Echoes • Ezekiel 34:2-4—condemnation of selfish shepherds illuminates Peter’s warning. • 1 Peter 2:21—“Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example.” • Matthew 20:25-28—servant leadership repeated for emphasis. • Hebrews 13:7—“Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” Practical Take-Aways for Today • Lead from the midst, not from the top—be accessible and approachable. • Demonstrate first what you desire in others: prayer, integrity, generosity. • Use authority to lift burdens, not load them. Ask, “How can I serve?” before, “How can they serve me?” • Remember accountability: the “Chief Shepherd” will appear (1 Peter 5:4). • Cultivate a culture where titles mean opportunities to wash feet, not demand favors. At a Glance: Servant Leadership Checklist □ Motive: love, not control □ Method: example, not coercion □ Measure: Christ’s approval, not personal acclaim □ Mind-set: shepherd, not overlord □ Mission: build up others, not oneself |
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