Encouragement: Leader and Layperson

Encouragement to Foreigners: 1 Peter, Message 14

1 Peter 5:1-5

ETS: Peter exhorted both the elders and non-elders.

ESS: We should live among one other respectfully.

OSS: [MO: Ethical] {SO: I want the hearers to commit to living among others respectfully within their God-given roles.}

PQ: What groups are addressed by Peter?

UW: Groups

Intro.:

TS: Let us examine the groups addressed by Peter together:

Peter addressed the elders. (vv. 1-4)

Instruction: Peter instructed them to shepherd the flock of God.

Manner: Peter instructed them in the manner to which they were to shepherd: willingly, eagerly, and exemplary.

Reminder: Peter reminded them of their role as under-shepherds of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus.

Reward: Peter encouraged them to lead towards the reward of the unfading crown.

APPLICATION: Leaders within the church are expected to lead in a certain manner with the reminder that they are not the sole authority, the are under the authority of God. They are to lead towards the reward of the unfading crown- in the workplace, leaders…in the church, leaders… in our homes, leaders...

Peter addressed the Non-elders. (v. 5a)

Instruction: Peter exhorted the non-elders to submit (arrange under) the leadership of the elders.

APPLICATION: Those not in formal leadership, the call is to submit to leadership. This is not a calling to be abused or taken advantage of. This is a calling to acknowledge and respect authority, to trust the leaders God has placed in your life, and to arrange oneself underneath their leading.

Peter addressed the Elders and Non-elders alike. (v. 5b)

Instruction: Clothe oneself in humility towards others in relation.

APPLICATION: Regardless of one’s position, whether leader or lay, we are to all live in humility towards one another, acknowledging our own inability and acknowledging God’s capability. Confessing our helplessness and requesting God’s helpfulness.

CONCLUSION: Regardless of one’s role in the church, whether leader or layperson, we know that we are to live and lead in a way that honors God. Thus, we need to ensure that we are living among one another in a manner worthy of God’s calling on our lives as believers. How are you leading and living among others today?