Shepherds of the Flock
1 Peter 5:2-4 tells the reader to remember that leading a flock should be done with God given oversight (direction) and not human compulsion. Also it tells the reader to not dominate the flock but to be an example to them in said leadership. No one wants a leader who is telling you what to do and not being a good example of that. If my leader says that we should serve and read the word, and they don't serve or read the word, then they aren't being a good leader nor are they being a good example to the flock. We need flock leaders to hold themselves accountable and also be held accountable.
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Divisions in the Church
In this first letter from Paul to church in Corinth, Paul has some things wants to share with the church about what they have been struggling with. Paul had been instrumental in building the churches and helping them grow and so his letters serve as if they were to come from a mentor, but a mentor who is a Christ follower and was not after his own gain.
Paul saw division in the church. He saw that church members had favorites from the church leaders. The members of the church made it more about who they followed then actually keeping their worship to that of Christ and remembering what he did on the cross. In 1 Corinthians 1:10-13 he specifies that he is appealing to them to stop them and to recognize that Christ is not divided. yes we all have our roles, but one's role in the body of Christ is no more significant than other roles in the body.
We have to remember as followers of Christ to stay united with other believers and not cause division in the church. What kind of example are we setting for those that look at us from the outside. Abraham Lincoln is known for saying "A house divided against itself cannot stand." I'm sure that quote applies to the Civil War, but would it not stand true to a home where the family does not get along? How would they look to the community? What about a church full of people who are not united in Christ? How would it look to those who are not Christ followers? While we are not perfect, we Christ followers have to remember that we are examples, imperfect examples, but examples nonetheless of what it is to be a Christ follower.
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Christ is our Example
Christ is our example and we should not forget. We are told in Romans 15:1-3 that we are to please our neighbors for their own good and build them up. Build them up could mean encourage and guide/instruct/teach. Our neighbors who need help (weaker in faith) need to be helped by us that can in those ways. We must remember that when Christ came it was not to please himself but to help us by saving us from our sins by dying for us. With Christ's example we see sacrifice, selfless sacrifice. That is our example and not because of culture but because of our understanding of the scripture and our seeking to follow Christ and seek God's will.
In Romans 15:14, as the minister, Paul tells those within the ministry that he is satisfied with them, and then gives them loving affirmations that they are filled with goodness and reaffirms that they are knowledgeable to teach one another. But he also tells them that there are things he has said/written that are to serve as reminders. I love how he brings them up for their growth and points out what he likes but also says that he bring up points to teach and remind others of some vital points to remember.
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