1 Peter 5:2

Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

Feed {G4165} the flock {G4168} of God {G2316} which is among {G1722} you {G5213}, taking the oversight {G1983} thereof, not {G3361} by constraint {G317}, but {G235} willingly {G1596}; not {G3366} for filthy lucre {G147}, but {G235} of a ready mind {G4290};

shepherd the flock of God that is in your care, exercising oversight not out of constraint, but willingly, as God wants; and not out of a desire for dishonest gain, but with enthusiasm;

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness;

Tend the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not of constraint, but willingly, according to the will of God; nor yet for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

Commentary

1 Peter 5:2 provides a foundational exhortation to those in spiritual leadership within the church, specifically addressing elders (as implied by the preceding verse, 1 Peter 5:1, where Peter identifies himself as a fellow elder). This verse outlines the core responsibilities and, crucially, the right attitudes for Christian oversight.

Context

Peter's first epistle is written to "strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia" (1 Peter 1:1), believers facing various trials and persecutions. In chapter 5, he transitions from general exhortations to specific instructions for different groups within the community, starting with the elders. Peter, who was himself commanded by Jesus to "feed my sheep" (John 21:17), emphasizes the pastoral role of caring for God's people, reflecting the heart of Christ the Good Shepherd.

Key Themes

  • Shepherding God's Flock: The primary command is to "feed the flock of God." This metaphor portrays believers as sheep and leaders as shepherds, implying care, protection, guidance, and provision of spiritual nourishment. It highlights the sacred trust placed in leaders to nurture the spiritual well-being of the congregation.
  • Willing and Voluntary Service: Leaders are to serve "not by constraint, but willingly." This emphasizes that spiritual oversight is not a burden or an obligation grudgingly undertaken, but a joyful and spontaneous act of service. True leadership flows from a heart eager to serve God and His people.
  • Pure Motives (Not for Filthy Lucre): The warning "not for filthy lucre" (dishonest or shameful gain) directly addresses the temptation to use spiritual office for personal financial advantage. Genuine Christian leadership is characterized by selflessness, prioritizing the flock's welfare over material profit. This echoes qualifications for overseers found elsewhere, such as in 1 Timothy 3:3 and Titus 1:7.
  • A Ready Mind: Complementing "willingly," "of a ready mind" signifies enthusiasm, eagerness, and promptness in fulfilling one's duties. It speaks to a positive and proactive attitude in spiritual service, reflecting a genuine desire to minister effectively.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Feed" (poimainō): This Greek verb means "to shepherd," encompassing not just feeding but also guiding, protecting, and caring for the flock. It implies comprehensive pastoral care and governance.
  • "Oversight" (episkopountes): Derived from the root of episkopos (bishop, overseer), this term refers to the act of superintending, watching over, or exercising spiritual supervision. It denotes a watchful and responsible care for the congregation.
  • "Filthy lucre" (aischrokerdos): This compound Greek word literally means "greedy for shameful gain" or "dishonest gain." It strongly condemns any motive for ministry driven by avarice or the pursuit of illicit profit.
  • "Ready mind" (prothumos): This adjective means "eager," "willing," "prompt," or "zealous." It highlights the internal disposition of a leader who serves with genuine enthusiasm and without hesitation.

Practical Application

This verse remains profoundly relevant for all who serve in leadership within the church today, from pastors and elders to small group leaders and volunteers. It calls for:

  • Selfless Service: Leaders are reminded that their role is primarily one of humble service and spiritual nourishment, not personal gain or power.
  • Joyful Commitment: Ministry should be undertaken with a willing heart and a ready mind, reflecting a genuine love for God and His people, rather than out of obligation or external pressure.
  • Integrity in Motives: The verse challenges all believers, especially those in positions of influence, to examine their motives for service, ensuring they are pure and focused on God's glory and the well-being of others, rather than material reward.
  • A Shepherding Heart: The metaphor of feeding the flock encourages all believers to develop a shepherding heart, caring for those around them, and contributing to the spiritual health of the community.
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Cross-References

  • Titus 1:7 (12 votes)

    For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;

  • 1 Timothy 3:8 (10 votes)

    ¶ Likewise [must] the deacons [be] grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;

  • Acts 20:26 (9 votes)

    Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I [am] pure from the blood of all [men].

  • Acts 20:28 (9 votes)

    Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

  • Titus 3:1 (9 votes)

    ¶ Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

  • 1 Timothy 3:3 (7 votes)

    Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;

  • 1 Corinthians 9:7 (5 votes)

    Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?