what is a pastor? - pt. 2
This and the posts linked below explore the question: "What is a
Pastor?" I'd love to hear your thoughts or responses in the comments!
The Nature of Pastoral Authority (Oversight)
Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock." (1 Peter 5:1-3, NASB)
“Shepherding the flock” has several implications here:
- A gentle authority – “oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily”
- A godly authority – “according to the will of God”
- A willing authority – “not for sordid gain (not only money, but power over others), but with eagerness
- A humble authority – “nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge”
- Exemplary authority – “proving to be examples to the flock”
Part 1: Pastoral Charge to Peter
Part 2: The Nature of Pastoral Authority
Part 3: On Shepherding the Flock
Part 4: Some Personal Comments
Related Posts:
- Jeff Gissing: "What is a Pastor?"
- Jeff Gissing: "What is a Pastor?" (cont.)