(a) Explain Peter's advice to the elders and members of the church in their interpersonal relationships. (b) State two duties of a good church leader.

Answer Details

(a) Peter's advice to the elders and members on interpersonal relationships (1 Peter 5:1-7)

To the elders.

• Peter, as a fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, exhorted the elders to shepherd the flock of God that was among them, exercising oversight.
• They were to do this not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have them.
• They were to serve not for shameful gain but eagerly.
• They were not to domineer over those in their charge but to be examples to the flock.
• When the chief Shepherd appears, they would receive the unfading crown of glory.

To the younger members and all.

• The younger were to be subject to the elders.
• All were to clothe themselves with humility toward one another, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
• They were to humble themselves under the mighty hand of God and cast all their anxieties on Him, because He cares for them.

(b) Two duties of a good church leader

1. To care for and guide the members, shepherding the flock diligently, teaching them and watching over their spiritual welfare.
2. To lead by good example, serving humbly and willingly rather than domineering or seeking personal gain.