Shepherd the flock of God in your care, not under compulsion, but willingly; neither for love of dishonest gain, but eagerly;

Caring Lovingly for the “Flock of God”

5. (a) To be effective, what attitude should a Christian overseer have in order to fulfill his responsibility toward “the flock”? (b) Why can an overseer today view matters as Peter did?

⁵ As an eyewitness of the sufferings of the Christ, Peter was moved to emphasize the importance of showing concern for the “flock of God.” Just as the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, demonstrated such concern, so it should be with all those shepherding “the flock.” But a Christian overseer certainly could not do this if he felt that he was serving under compulsion. No appointed elder today should feel that he must serve due to being put under pressure. While there is much work involved in shouldering this privileged responsibility, the loving undershepherd will display a desire to help and to be of service. But he will manifest that spirit only if he has the same mental attitude as that possessed by Christ Jesus, who displayed humility and willingness to endure suffering. (Phil. 2:5-8; 1 Pet. 4:1)