What is the calling of an elder? It is to be a shepherd. Peter, who calls himself an elder along with the people to whom he is writing, points out the responsibilities of an elder. Exercise oversight. Work willingly. Be an example. Be like Christ the chief shepherd. Watch out for the devil, a ravenous lion. Resist the devil. Suffer willingly for Christ. Trust the Lord will "restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish" you (v. 10).
Are we ready to walk for Christ in this way? Are we willing to submit to our elders as we are exhorted in verse 5? When we are at peace and not in any struggles we probably are. When the going gets rough we show what we are really made of. We flee from the Scriptural commands. We fear our Lord will not take care of us.
What an encouragement this is in verse 10 when the first thing the Lord will do is to restore us. As he restored the Peter who denied him three times, our Lord comes to us and restores us. He lovingly asks us again and again if we love him. His restoration is full and free.
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