(a) With reference to first Peter, how should Christian leaders relate to their followers. [9 marks] (b) State any three problems which confront Christian l...

Answer Details

(a) How Christian leaders should relate to their followers (1 Peter 5:1-4)

Peter, as a fellow elder and witness of Christ's sufferings, gives charge to the leaders (elders) of the Church concerning their conduct toward those under their care.

• Shepherd the flock willingly. They are to tend the flock of God that is among them, exercising oversight not by compulsion but willingly, as God would have them.
• Serve without greed. They must not lead for shameful gain or dishonest profit, but eagerly and out of genuine devotion.
• Lead by example, not by force. They are not to lord it over those in their charge (not to domineer), but to be examples to the flock in conduct and character.
• Care for the whole flock. As shepherds they must guide, feed, protect and watch over the people entrusted to them, seeking their welfare.
• Look to the reward from Christ. When the Chief Shepherd (Christ) appears, faithful leaders will receive the unfading crown of glory. Their motive is service to God, not human praise.

(Peter also urges the younger to submit to the elders, and all to clothe themselves with humility toward one another, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.)

(b) Three problems that confront Christian leaders today

1. The temptation of greed, love of money and misuse of church funds for personal enrichment.
2. Pride, abuse of authority and lording it over members instead of serving humbly.
3. Division, false teaching and rivalry, along with worldly pressures and immorality that threaten the unity and integrity of the Church.