Elders

Hello everyone,

How are you doing on this day? I hope well and bubbling in the Lord.

Primary Text

“I warn and counsel the elders among you (the pastors and spiritual guides of the church) as a fellow elder and as an eyewitness [called to testify] of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a sharer in the glory (the honor and splendor) that is to be revealed (disclosed, unfolded):” 1 Peter 4v19 (AMP)

“Tend (nurture, guard, guide, and fold) the flock of God that is [your responsibility], not by coercion or constraint, but willingly; not dishonorably motivated by the advantages and profits [belonging to the office], but eagerly and cheerfully;” 1 Peter 5v2(AMP)

The Apostle Paul here exhorts the elders (pastors and spiritual guides of the church) to - Tend the flock of God. In essence, the flock of God, the children of God in the local congregation are have been put in the care of the spiritual leaders. As a spiritual leader, how are you carrying out this responsibility? Is there a flock in your care today? Are you nurturing them – helping them grow in the knowledge and grace of the Lord? Are you guarding them – protecting them and covering them with prayer? Are you guiding them aright, in the way of the Lord?

In John 10v11-13 (AMP), our Lord Jesus tells us how He takes good care of His own sheep: “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd risks and lays down His [own] life for the sheep. But the hired servant (he who merely serves for wages) who is neither the shepherd nor the owner of the sheep, when he sees the wolf coming, deserts the flock and runs away. And the wolf chases and snatches them and scatters [the flock]. Now the hireling flees because he merely serves for wages and is not himself concerned about the sheep [cares nothing for them].”

Prayer

Heavenly Father we thank You so much for Your Word. Father, we commit our elders and pastors and spiritual leaders into Your hands. We pray they will follow You and live godly lives in Jesus name, amen. Please grant them wisdom in leading the Church in Jesus name, amen.