Bible Text: 1 Peter 5:1-4 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: 1 Peter, The Proper Exercise of Authority

The Biblical duties and responsibilities of Elders include: Pastoral (Shepherding)—guiding, directing, protecting, praying for, and warning the flock (Acts 20:28-35; James 5:14; 1 Peter 5:1-3); Instructional—to teach and exhort by both example and by the Word of God, and to refute false teaching (1 Peter 5:3; 1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:9; Acts 20:29-31); and Administrative—to give oversight and direction to the church, to supervise the financial affairs of the church, to appoint deacons as necessary to accomplish biblical goals (Acts 11:29-30; 1 Tim. 3:5; 5:17).
“Peter sets down in a series of contrasts the perils and the privileges of the eldership; and everything he says is applicable, not only to the eldership, but also to all Christian service inside and outside the church. (Wm. Barclay)
Biblical directions and cautions to both the leadership and the flock (Heb. 13:7,17; 1 Thess. 5:12,13):

-Leaders are to be examples to the flock in the way they live

-Leaders will give an account of their stewardship to God

-Leaders are to seek the will of Christ for the church

-The Body is to submit to the leadership, even when there is a difference of opinion

-The Body is to respect the leadership for their works’ sake

-The Body is to make leadership a joy not a burden