Identity of Sheep and Shepherd

1 Peter 5:1-5

If you are in the position of feeding sheep, you are a shepherd.

1. PETER ADDRESSES ELDERS

   1. How do you tell the difference between a sheep and a shepherd?
   2. Peter shows humility
      1. “Fellow Elder”
      2. Witness of the suffering (unique qualification
      3. Partaker in the coming revealed glory (as a brother)
   3. What is an “elder”
   4. What does it take to be an elder?
      1. Relationship - Have a personal relationship with Christ
      2. Calling - Practical gifting to serve Christ
      3. Desire - Powerful desire to please Christ

2. PETER USES THREE WORDS FOR PASTOR

   1. Elder Maturity
      1. Must be a proven person
      2. Show sobriety in life
   2. Overseers Responsibility
      1. Responsible for the well being of the flock
   3. Poimen Ministry
      1. Feeds the sheep
      2. Protects the sheep
   4. Elder is a qualification, Overseer and shepherd are the two main tasks

3. THE RESPONSE OF THE SHEEP TO THE ELDERS (1 Peter 5:5)

1. “Younger” refers to the congregation (not “elders”)
2. Be subject to the elders
3. We should all show humility (elders are sheep too)

4. What should you do?
   1. Ability to teach is the only qualification of an elder versus deacon
   2. If you are a SS teacher, you are acting as an elder
   3. If you have a leadership role you have responsibilities