Text:I Peter 5:1-4

Today, we will look at the church of God both from the shepherd’s view and the flock’s view.  God is so wonderful to His people and when we follow Him, we glorify Christ and are blessed.  Both has a very specific role as well and each need to live fully and answer the call of God.

Again, the word for elder is presbyteros which means old man, eldest, senior, or rank of office.  Many have taken this in different ways and there are many different types of church government today.  Three main kinds are pastor or elder lead, congregation lead, and Presbyterian or groups of elders lead.  Each of these claim to have the scripture to back them and it actually seems to be a point of contention or division in some circles.  This should not be with the church of God.  I believe, like we as people, the churches are different and need to follow the leading of God.  We at LBC are kind of a mix of all.  As pastor I lead the church but really have not authority to change anything or spend money.  It is voted on by the members of the church.  We also have many mature Christians that serve and run ministries in the body of Christ here in Londonderry.  Each congregation needs to seek God’s face and guidance through prayer and fasting.  Then they must follow through with obedience and service to the Lord.

The bottom line is very simple, Heb. 13:17.  The congregation does not exist to serve the leaders.  Leaders are actually called to serve the congregation.  However, one cannot look past the call of the congregation to obey and submit to the leadership of their local church or body.  This is why people should pray and fast when seeking a church to serve in.  Too many times people go to a church because of the pastor, or their children like it, etc.  We must obey the Lord first and foremost.  

Leaders in the church though are given a very specific command here in our text.  Feed the flock, serve with readiness of mind being examples, and not for filthy, world gain.  Too many leaders are concerned about their comfort and lifestyles instead of serving God’s people.  May we all follow our great Leader!