Shepherds, Sheep, and the Roaring Lion 

1 Peter 5

Hearers of the Word

Theme: In suffering, God calls His shepherds to faithful, willing, humble service and His people to humble dependence and vigilant faith, all while holding fast to our unfading hope in the Chief Shepherd.

I. Instructions for Shepherds (Elders/Pastors) – vv. 1–4

a. Three charges to shepherds:

i. Shepherd Faithfully – Feed, lead, love, protect God’s flock 

(not “my” flock) -  Reference to John 21

ii. Serve Willingly – Not by compulsion but eagerly 

(Reference  2 Cor 9:7)

iii. Lead Humbly – Not lording over, but as examples 

(Reference Mark 10:42–45).

II. Instructions for the Flock (All Believers) – vv. 5–7

a. Key Elements:

i. Younger submit to elders; all submit to one another.

ii. Clothe yourselves with humility

iii. Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you 

III. Warning & Encouragement: The Enemy & the God of All Grace – vv. 8–11

a. Key Elements:

i. Be sober and vigilant — your adversary the devil prowls like a roaring lion. 

ii. Resist him, stand firm in the faith (you are not alone).

Doers of the Word

1. Read John 21:15–17 alongside 1 Peter 5:2. What does it mean that the flock belongs to God, not the pastor? How does these free pastors and protect congregations?

2. “Not by compulsion but willingly… not lording it over but being examples.” Which of these three charges to elders/pastors do you think is most needed in the church today, and why?

3. “Clothe yourselves with humility.” What does practical humility look like in

relationships between older and younger believers in a local church?

4. How does knowing Satan is a real, scheming adversary change the way we live day-to-day? What are practical ways to “be sober,” “be vigilant,” and “resist him”?


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