1 Peter 5:3- Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Peter continues his instructions to church leaders, urging them not to use their position to control or dominate others. Instead, he tells them to lead by example. The phrase “lording it over” refers to a kind of leadership that is heavy-handed, prideful, or controlling—where the leader tries to use power to force people to obey. Peter makes it clear that this is not how God’s people should be led. Leadership in the church is not about being the boss; it’s about showing others how to live a life of faith, humility, and love. A good leader is someone whose life can be followed, not someone who demands to be obeyed.

Historical Context

In the time Peter wrote this letter, leadership often followed the model of the Roman Empire, where rulers exercised authority through power, fear, and control. Many religious leaders had also fallen into this pattern, using their roles to gain status and manipulate others. But the early Christian church was called to be different. Church leaders were tasked with caring for people in a way that reflected Jesus‘ humility and love, especially in times of hardship and persecution. Peter wanted to protect the church from falling into worldly ways of leadership.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches that leadership in God’s family is servant-hearted and built on personal example. It reminds us that authority is not something to be abused. Those entrusted with the care of others are called to reflect God’s character in how they lead. Leadership is not about demanding obedience but about living in such a way that others naturally want to follow. God cares deeply about how His people are led, because abusive or selfish leadership can cause great harm to the body of believers.

Literary Analysis

Peter uses the image of a “flock” again, reinforcing the shepherd-sheep metaphor. The contrast between “lording it over” and “being examples” is strong and clear. The verse is short but direct, driving home the idea that true leadership is not about power but about influence through godly living. The phrase “those entrusted to you” emphasizes that leaders are caretakers of something precious—they are responsible for people who belong to God, not to themselves.

Cross-References

• Matthew 20:25-28 – Jesus tells His disciples that leadership among them must not be like the rulers of the world, but that the greatest must be a servant.

• Philippians 2:3-5 – Believers are called to humility and to have the same attitude as Christ, who did not cling to His power but served others.

• John 13:12-15 – Jesus washes His disciples’ feet and tells them to follow His example.

• Hebrews 13:7 – Christians are told to remember their leaders and imitate their faith.

Meaning for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse is a strong reminder that leadership—whether in the church, the family, or anywhere else—should never be about control or pride. It’s about living in such a way that others can see what it looks like to follow Jesus. It also reminds everyone under leadership to watch for leaders who lead with love and integrity, not those who seek to dominate. For every believer, it’s a call to lead by example in whatever sphere of influence God has given.

A Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love because it shows how much He cares for His people. God does not want His children to be treated harshly or manipulated. Instead, He appoints leaders who are supposed to love, guide, and serve His people. His desire is that His flock is cared for gently and lovingly, the same way He cares for them.

Connection to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the perfect picture of this verse. He never ruled by force or manipulation. Instead, He led by example—through humility, service, and sacrifice. In John 13:15, after washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” He demonstrated what it means to lead by serving others and laying down His life for them (John 10:11). Peter’s instruction here mirrors the leadership style of Jesus.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the world’s idea of leadership differ from the kind of leadership Peter describes?

2. What does it look like in practical terms to “be an example to the flock”?

3. Have you ever experienced leadership that felt controlling rather than caring? How did it affect you?

4. In what areas of your life can you lead by example?

5. How does Jesus’ example of servant leadership challenge the way you think about influence and authority?