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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Peter 5:2 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;</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_peter/5-2.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/13/60_1Pe_05_02.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Peter 5:2 - Instructions to Elders" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="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;" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_peter/5-2.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_peter/5-2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_peter/">1 Peter</a> > <a href="/1_peter/5.htm">Chapter 5</a> > Verse 2</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad2.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_peter/5-1.htm" title="1 Peter 5:1">◄</a> 1 Peter 5:2 <a href="/1_peter/5-3.htm" title="1 Peter 5:3">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_peter/5.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_peter/5.htm">New International Version</a> Be shepherds of God&#8217s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; <a href="/nlt/1_peter/5.htm">New Living Translation</a> Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. <a href="/esv/1_peter/5.htm">English Standard Version</a> shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; <a href="/bsb/1_peter/5.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; <a href="/blb/1_peter/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but willingly according to God; and not for base gain but eagerly, <a href="/kjv/1_peter/5.htm">King James Bible</a> 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; <a href="/nkjv/1_peter/5.htm">New King James Version</a> Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; <a href="/nasb_/1_peter/5.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not with greed but with eagerness; <a href="/nasb/1_peter/5.htm">NASB 1995</a> shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; <a href="/nasb77/1_peter/5.htm">NASB 1977 </a> shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; <a href="/lsb/1_peter/5.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> shepherd the flock of God among you, overseeing not under compulsion, but willingly, according to God; and not for dishonest gain, but with eagerness; <a href="/amp/1_peter/5.htm">Amplified Bible</a> shepherd and guide and protect the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not [motivated] for shameful gain, but with wholehearted enthusiasm; <a href="/csb/1_peter/5.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Shepherd God’s flock among you, not overseeing out of compulsion but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed for money but eagerly; <a href="/hcsb/1_peter/5.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Shepherd God&#8217s flock among you, not overseeing out of compulsion but freely, according to God&#8217s will; not for the money but eagerly; <a href="/asv/1_peter/5.htm">American Standard Version</a> 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; <a href="/cev/1_peter/5.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Just as shepherds watch over their sheep, you must watch over everyone God has placed in your care. Do it willingly in order to please God, and not simply because you think you must. Let it be something you want to do, instead of something you do merely to make money. <a href="/erv/1_peter/5.htm">English Revised Version</a> Tend the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not of constraint, but willingly, according unto God; nor yet for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; <a href="/gwt/1_peter/5.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Be shepherds over the flock God has entrusted to you. Watch over it as God does: Don't do this because you have to, but because you want to. Don't do it out of greed, but out of a desire to serve. <a href="/gnt/1_peter/5.htm">Good News Translation</a> to be shepherds of the flock that God gave you and to take care of it willingly, as God wants you to, and not unwillingly. Do your work, not for mere pay, but from a real desire to serve. <a href="/isv/1_peter/5.htm">International Standard Version</a> Be shepherds of God's flock that is among you, watching over it, not because you must but because you want to, and not greedily but eagerly, as God desires. <a href="/msb/1_peter/5.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Be shepherds of God?s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; <a href="/net/1_peter/5.htm">NET Bible</a> Give a shepherd's care to God's flock among you, exercising oversight not merely as a duty but willingly under God's direction, not for shameful profit but eagerly. <a href="/nheb/1_peter/5.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion, but voluntarily, as God wants; not for dishonest gain, but willingly; <a href="/wbt/1_peter/5.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight of it, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but from a ready mind; <a href="/wey/1_peter/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Be shepherds of God's flock which is among you. Exercise the oversight not reluctantly but eagerly, in accordance with the will of God; not for base gain but with cheerful minds; <a href="/web/1_peter/5.htm">World English Bible</a> shepherd the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion, but voluntarily; not for dishonest gain, but willingly; <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_peter/5.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> feed the flock of God that [is] among you, overseeing not by compulsion, but willingly, neither for shameful gain, but eagerly, <a href="/blb/1_peter/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but willingly according to God; and not for base gain but eagerly, <a href="/ylt/1_peter/5.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> feed the flock of God that is among you, overseeing not constrainedly, but willingly, neither for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, <a href="/slt/1_peter/5.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Tend the flock of God which among you, inspecting, not by force, but voluntarily; neither occupied in sordid gain, but of a ready will;<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_peter/5.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking care of it, not by constraint, but willingly, according to God: not for filthy lucre's sake, but voluntarily: <a href="/cpdv/1_peter/5.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> pasture the flock of God that is among you, providing for it, not as a requirement, but willingly, in accord with God, and not for the sake of tainted profit, but freely, <a href="/nabre/1_peter/5.htm">New American Bible</a> Tend the flock of God in your midst, [overseeing] not by constraint but willingly, as God would have it, not for shameful profit but eagerly. <a href="/nrsvce/1_peter/5.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it—not for sordid gain but eagerly.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_peter/5.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Feed the flock of God which is entrusted to your care and shepherd them spiritually, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but with all your heart. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_peter/5.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Shepherd the flock of God that follows you and give care spiritually, not by compulsion, but with pleasure, not by defiled profit, but with all your heart,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_peter/5.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Act as shepherds to the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight, not by compulsion, but willingly; not for the sake of sordid gain, but from readiness of mind: <a href="/godbey/1_peter/5.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> shepherdize the flock of God which is among you, not coercively, but willingly, for the sake of God; not for filthy lucre, but cheerfully. <a href="/haweis/1_peter/5.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> feed the flock of God which is among you, exercising your pastoral office not of necessity, but of choice, not for base gain, but with alacrity of mind; <a href="/mace/1_peter/5.htm">Mace New Testament</a> to exhort you to feed the flock of God, which is among you: to take care of it, voluntarily, without reluctance, not from any view to sordid gain, but out of real affection; <a href="/wey/1_peter/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Be shepherds of God's flock which is among you. Exercise the oversight not reluctantly but eagerly, in accordance with the will of God; not for base gain but with cheerful minds; <a href="/worrell/1_peter/5.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> feed the flock of God which is among you, overseeing it, not by constraint, but willingly; nor yet for base gain, but of a ready mind; <a href="/worsley/1_peter/5.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> taking the episcopal charge of it, not by constraint, but willingly; not for shameful lucre, but with a ready mind: <a href="/parallel/1_peter/5-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1h9-AlUcaGE?start=900" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_peter/5.htm">Instructions to Elders</a> 1As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: 2<a href="/greek/4165.htm" title="4165: poimanate (V-AMA-2P) -- To shepherd, tend, herd; hence: I rule, govern. From poimen; to tend as a shepherd of.">Be shepherds</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God’s</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4168.htm" title="4168: poimnion (N-ANS) -- A little flock. Neuter of a presumed derivative of poimne; a flock, i.e. group.">flock</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">that is among</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymin (PPro-D2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">you,</a> <a href="/greek/1983.htm" title="1983: episkopountes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To exercise oversight, care for, visit. From epi and skopeo; to oversee; by implication, to beware.">watching over them</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.">not</a> <a href="/greek/317.htm" title="317: anankastōs (Adv) -- By way of compulsion, unwillingly, by force, necessarily. Adverb from a derivative of anagkazo; compulsorily.">out of compulsion,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">because it is</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theon (N-AMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God’s</a> <a href="/greek/1596.htm" title="1596: hekousiōs (Adv) -- Willingly, of one's own accord, spontaneously. Adverb from the same as hekousion; voluntarily.">will;</a> <a href="/greek/3366.htm" title="3366: mēde (Conj) -- And not, not even, neither?nor. From me and de; but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor.">not</a> <a href="/greek/147.htm" title="147: aischrokerdōs (Adv) -- Greedily, in a spirit of eagerness for base gain. Adverb from aischrokerdes; sordidly.">out of greed,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/4290.htm" title="4290: prothymōs (Adv) -- Readily, eagerly, with a ready mind, cheerfully. Adverb from prothumos; with alacrity.">out of eagerness;</a> 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/john/21-15.htm">John 21:15-17</a> When they had finished eating, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus replied, “Feed My lambs.” / Jesus asked a second time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus told him, “Shepherd My sheep.” / Jesus asked a third time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was deeply hurt that Jesus had asked him a third time, “Do you love Me?” “Lord, You know all things,” he replied. “You know I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. <a href="/acts/20-28.htm">Acts 20:28</a> Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood. <a href="/ezekiel/34-2.htm">Ezekiel 34:2-4</a> “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock? / You eat the fat, wear the wool, and butcher the fattened sheep, but you do not feed the flock. / You have not strengthened the weak, healed the sick, bound up the injured, brought back the strays, or searched for the lost. Instead, you have ruled them with violence and cruelty. <a href="/hebrews/13-17.htm">Hebrews 13:17</a> Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you. <a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm">1 Timothy 3:1-7</a> This is a trustworthy saying: If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble task. / An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, / not dependent on wine, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money. ... <a href="/jeremiah/3-15.htm">Jeremiah 3:15</a> Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-12.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:12-13</a> But we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who work diligently among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. / In love, hold them in highest regard because of their work. Live in peace with one another. <a href="/matthew/20-25.htm">Matthew 20:25-28</a> But Jesus called them aside and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. / It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, / and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave— ... <a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">1 Corinthians 9:16-17</a> Yet when I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am obligated to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! / If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility. <a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm">2 Timothy 4:2</a> Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and encourage with every form of patient instruction. <a href="/isaiah/40-11.htm">Isaiah 40:11</a> He tends His flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart. He gently leads the nursing ewes. <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Titus 1:7-9</a> As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money. / Instead, he must be hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. / He must hold firmly to the faithful word as it was taught, so that he can encourage others by sound teaching and refute those who contradict it. <a href="/zechariah/11-16.htm">Zechariah 11:16-17</a> For behold, I will raise up a shepherd in the land who will neither care for the lost, nor seek the young, nor heal the broken, nor sustain the healthy, but he will devour the flesh of the choice sheep and tear off their hooves. / Woe to the worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! May a sword strike his arm and his right eye! May his arm be completely withered and his right eye utterly blinded!” <a href="/luke/12-42.htm">Luke 12:42-44</a> And the Lord answered, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their portion at the proper time? / Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. / Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. <a href="/proverbs/27-23.htm">Proverbs 27:23</a> Be sure to know the state of your flocks, and pay close attention to your herds;</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>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.<a href="/songs/1-8.htm">Song of Solomon 1:8</a> If thou know not, O thou fairest among women, go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, and feed thy kids beside the shepherds' tents.<a href="/isaiah/40-11.htm">Isaiah 40:11</a> He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.<a href="/ezekiel/34-2.htm">Ezekiel 34:2,3,23</a> Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks? … the flock.<a href="/isaiah/63-11.htm">Isaiah 63:11</a> Then he remembered the days of old, Moses, and his people, saying, Where is he that brought them up out of the sea with the shepherd of his flock? where is he that put his holy Spirit within him?<a href="/jeremiah/13-17.htm">Jeremiah 13:17,20</a> But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the LORD'S flock is carried away captive… <a href="/ezekiel/34-31.htm">Ezekiel 34:31</a> And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.which is among you.<a href="/psalms/78-71.htm">Psalm 78:71,72</a> From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance… <a href="/acts/20-26.htm">Acts 20:26,27</a> Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men… taking.<a href="/hebrews/12-15.htm">Hebrews 12:15</a> Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;not by.<a href="/isaiah/6-8.htm">Isaiah 6:8</a> Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.<a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">1 Corinthians 9:16,17</a> For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! … not for.<a href="/isaiah/56-11.htm">Isaiah 56:11</a> Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.<a href="/jeremiah/6-13.htm">Jeremiah 6:13</a> For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.<a href="/jeremiah/8-10.htm">Jeremiah 8:10</a> Therefore will I give their wives unto others, and their fields to them that shall inherit them: for every one from the least even unto the greatest is given to covetousness, from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_peter/4-19.htm">Accordance</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-6.htm">Authority</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-16.htm">Base</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-2.htm">Care</a> <a href="/philemon/1-18.htm">Charge</a> <a href="/james/5-13.htm">Cheerful</a> <a href="/philemon/1-14.htm">Compulsion</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-7.htm">Constraint</a> <a href="/philemon/1-18.htm">Dishonest</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-13.htm">Eager</a> <a href="/james/5-7.htm">Eagerly</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-11.htm">Eagerness</a> <a href="/james/1-18.htm">Exercise</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-7.htm">Exercising</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-3.htm">Feed</a> <a href="/james/2-2.htm">Filthy</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-20.htm">Flock</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">Forced</a> <a href="/james/4-13.htm">Gain</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-17.htm">Gladly</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-19.htm">God's</a> <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Greedy</a> <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Lucre</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/james/5-4.htm">Money</a> <a href="/philippians/1-1.htm">Overseers</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-1.htm">Oversight</a> <a href="/james/4-13.htm">Profit</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-5.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-7.htm">Reluctantly</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm">Serve</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm">Serving</a> <a href="/colossians/3-8.htm">Shameful</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-25.htm">Shepherd</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">Shepherds</a> <a href="/titus/1-11.htm">Sordid</a> <a href="/romans/14-19.htm">Tend</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-24.htm">Thereof</a> <a href="/james/5-2.htm">Unclean</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-9.htm">Using</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-17.htm">Voluntarily</a> <a href="/james/4-4.htm">Wants</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-7.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">Willing</a> <a href="/philemon/1-14.htm">Willingly</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_peter/3-13.htm">Accordance</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-10.htm">Authority</a> <a href="/revelation/21-27.htm">Base</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-7.htm">Care</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-3.htm">Charge</a> <a href="/1_kings/21-7.htm">Cheerful</a> <a href="/exodus/3-19.htm">Compulsion</a> <a href="/esther/1-8.htm">Constraint</a> <a href="/revelation/22-11.htm">Dishonest</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-2.htm">Eager</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-16.htm">Eagerly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-11.htm">Eagerness</a> <a href="/revelation/13-5.htm">Exercise</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-3.htm">Exercising</a> <a href="/jude/1-12.htm">Feed</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-7.htm">Filthy</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-3.htm">Flock</a> <a href="/revelation/12-9.htm">Forced</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-15.htm">Gain</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/28-47.htm">Gladly</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-3.htm">God's</a> <a href="/numbers/11-4.htm">Greedy</a> <a href="/1_samuel/8-3.htm">Lucre</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-6.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/genesis/17-12.htm">Money</a> <a href="/genesis/41-34.htm">Overseers</a> <a href="/genesis/43-12.htm">Oversight</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-3.htm">Profit</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-12.htm">Ready</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-7.htm">Reluctantly</a> <a href="/revelation/1-6.htm">Serve</a> <a href="/genesis/29-27.htm">Serving</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-2.htm">Shameful</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-4.htm">Shepherd</a> <a href="/jude/1-12.htm">Shepherds</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-8.htm">Sordid</a> <a href="/genesis/30-36.htm">Tend</a> <a href="/1_john/2-17.htm">Thereof</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-7.htm">Unclean</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-5.htm">Using</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/23-23.htm">Voluntarily</a> <a href="/revelation/11-5.htm">Wants</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-9.htm">Willing</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-5.htm">Willingly</a><div class="vheading2">1 Peter 5</div>1. <a href="/1_peter/5-1.htm">He exhorts the elders to feed their flocks;</a> 5. <a href="/1_peter/5-5.htm">the younger to obey;</a> 8. <a href="/1_peter/5-8.htm">and all to be sober, watchful, and constant in the faith;</a> 9. <a href="/1_peter/5-9.htm">and to resist the cruel adversary the devil.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_peter/5.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_peter/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_peter/5.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you This phrase calls leaders to act as shepherds, a metaphor deeply rooted in biblical tradition. Shepherding implies guidance, protection, and care, reflecting the role of leaders in the early church. The imagery of shepherding is prevalent throughout Scripture, notably in <a href="/psalms/23.htm">Psalm 23</a> and <a href="/john/10.htm">John 10</a>, where Jesus is depicted as the Good Shepherd. This connection underscores the responsibility of church leaders to emulate Christ's example. The phrase "God's flock" emphasizes that the people belong to God, not the leaders, reinforcing the idea of stewardship rather than ownership.watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly Leaders are encouraged to serve voluntarily, not because they are forced. This reflects the heart of true ministry, which should be motivated by love and a desire to serve God and His people. The concept of willingness aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized serving others out of love (<a href="/matthew/20-28.htm">Matthew 20:28</a>). The early church faced various challenges, and leaders were to rise to the occasion with a willing spirit, not merely fulfilling a duty.as God would have you This phrase highlights the divine standard for leadership. Leaders are to align their actions with God's will, seeking His guidance and approval. This aligns with the biblical principle of seeking God's kingdom and righteousness first (<a href="/matthew/6-33.htm">Matthew 6:33</a>). It also implies accountability to God, reminding leaders that their ultimate responsibility is to Him, not to human expectations or pressures.not out of greed, but out of eagerness The warning against greed addresses a common temptation for leaders, emphasizing the need for pure motives. Greed can corrupt leadership, leading to exploitation and self-serving behavior. Instead, leaders are called to serve eagerly, reflecting a genuine passion for ministry. This echoes Paul's teachings in <a href="/1_timothy/3-3.htm">1 Timothy 3:3</a> and <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Titus 1:7</a>, where he outlines the qualifications for church leaders, including being free from the love of money. Eagerness in service reflects a heart aligned with God's purposes, prioritizing the well-being of the flock over personal gain.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/peter.htm">Peter</a> The apostle Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, is the author of this epistle. He writes to encourage and instruct the early Christian communities. 2. <a href="/topical/e/elders.htm">Elders</a> The primary audience of this verse, elders are leaders within the early church responsible for guiding and nurturing the spiritual well-being of the congregation. 3. <a href="/topical/g/god's_flock.htm">God’s Flock</a> This term refers to the believers, the church community, whom the elders are called to shepherd and care for. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_early_church.htm">The Early Church</a> The context of this letter is the early Christian church, which faced persecution and needed strong, faithful leadership. 5. <a href="/topical/a/asia_minor.htm">Asia Minor</a> The region where the recipients of Peter's letter were located, encompassing several Roman provinces in what is now modern-day Turkey.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_shepherds.htm">The Role of Shepherds</a> Elders are called to be shepherds, a role that involves guidance, protection, and nurturing of the spiritual lives of the congregation. <a href="/topical/m/motivation_matters.htm">Motivation Matters</a> Leadership should be exercised willingly and eagerly, not out of obligation or for personal gain. The heart's motivation is crucial in serving God's people. <a href="/topical/g/god's_will_as_the_guiding_principle.htm">God’s Will as the Guiding Principle</a> Serving as a shepherd is not merely a human decision but a response to God's calling and will. Leaders should seek to align their actions with God's purposes. <a href="/topical/g/guard_against_greed.htm">Guard Against Greed</a> Elders must be vigilant against the temptation of greed, ensuring that their service is not tainted by selfish desires. <a href="/topical/e/eagerness_in_service.htm">Eagerness in Service</a> A genuine eagerness to serve reflects a heart aligned with God's will and a true love for the flock.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_peter_5.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Peter 5</a> <a href="/q/did_early_christians_use_a_shepherd_model.htm">(1 Peter 5:2) Is there historical evidence that early Christian communities followed a shepherd-flock structure as described, or is this an idealized model without real precedent? </a> <a href="/q/how_is_flock_management_biblical.htm">How does biblical stewardship relate to flock management?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_a_youth_pastor_do.htm">What does a youth pastor do?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_pastoral_counseling.htm">What is pastoral counseling?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_peter/5.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(2) Feed the flock of God which is among you.--By the word "feed" here is meant, not merely the giving of pasture, but the whole government. It is the verb used in <a href="/john/21-16.htm" title="He said to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, love you me? He said to him, Yes, Lord; you know that I love you. He said to him, Feed my sheep.">John 21:16</a>, not that in the 15th and 17th verses. There can be hardly any doubt that St. Peter was thinking of that scene when he issued these directions. Our Lord had committed into his hands all His sheep and lambs, without restriction of age or country, to be fed and shepherded; and now the time was approaching when he would have to "put off this tabernacle" (<a href="/2_peter/1-14.htm" title="Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ has showed me.">2Peter 1:14</a>), and he here takes order that "after his decease" the charge committed to him. may be fulfilled. He still shepherds the flock by proxy. Two other points must be mentioned, which bring this passage into connection with the charge given by St. Paul to the Ephesian elders (<a href="/acts/20-28.htm" title="Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood.">Acts 20:28</a>), which was very probably known to St. Peter. (1) St. Peter calls it "the flock of God." Textual critics are much divided on the reading in <a href="/acts/20-28.htm" title="Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood.">Acts 20:28</a>, but, on the whole, the Received reading seems the best supported: "the Church of God which He hath purchased with His own blood." At the same time, St. Peter is in remembrance how Christ had said, "Feed My sheep." It may be fairly thought, therefore, when we see St. Peter's own theology in <a href="/1_peter/1-25.htm" title="But the word of the Lord endures for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached to you.">1Peter 1:25</a>; <a href="/1_peter/2-3.htm" title="If so be you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.">1Peter 2:3</a>; <a href="/1_peter/3-15.htm" title="But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:">1Peter 3:15</a>, that when he writes, "Feed the flock of God," his thoughts turn to the Second Person of the Holy Trinity rather than to the First. (2) Hooker well points out, on <a href="/acts/20-28.htm" title="Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood.">Acts 20:28</a>, the unity of the flock. Though there were many elders in Ephesus, there was but one flock they fed between them. So now, all over Asia Minor, it was but one flock. St. Peter, to whom the flock throughout the whole world was committed, saw it as a whole, but the elders to whom he writes had only to look to that part of the one flock which was "among them." The marginal rendering is against the order of the Greek words, and does not suit the context so well when the context is rightly understood. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_peter/5.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 2. - Feed the flock of God which is among you; rather, tend, as a shepherd tends his flock. The verb ποιμάνατε is aorist, as if St. Peter wished to concentrate into one point of view all the labors of the ministerial life. He is echoing the word so solemnly addressed to himself by the risen Lord, "Feed my sheep ποίμαινε τὰ πρόβατά μου." The word covers all the various duties of the pastoral office: "Pasce mente, pasce ore, pasce operc, pasce animi oratione, verbi exhortatione, exempli exhibitione" (St. Bernard, quoted by Alford). St. Peter lays stress upon the solemn fact that the flock belongs to God, not to the shepherds (comp. <a href="/acts/20-28.htm">Acts 20:28</a>). Some understand the words rendered "which is among you τὸ ἐν ὑμῖν " as meaning" quantum in vobis est," "as far as lies in your power." Others as "that which is committed to you," or "that which is placed under your care." But the simple local meaning seems the best. Taking the oversight thereof. This word ἐπισκοποῦντες is not found in the Sinaitic and Vatican Manuscripts. Alford thinks that "it has, perhaps, been removed for ecclesiastical reasons, for fear πρεσβύτεροι should be supposed to be, as they really were, ἐπίσκοποι It is in the Alexandrine and most other ancient manuscripts and versions, and there seems to be no sufficient reason for omitting it. It shows that when this Epistle was written, the words πρεσβύτερος and ἐπίσκοπος, presbyter and bishop, were still synonymous (comp. <a href="/acts/20-17.htm">Acts 20:17</a> and 28 in the Greek; also <a href="/titus/1-5.htm">Titus 1:5</a> and 7). Not by constraint, but willingly. The word ἀναγκαστῶς, by constraint, occurs only here. St. Paul says (<a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">1 Corinthians 9:16</a>), "Necessity is laid upon me;" but that was an inward necessity, the constraining love of Christ. Bede, quoted by Alford, says, "Coacte pascit gregem, qui propter rerum temporalium penurium non habens unde vivat, idcirco praedicat evangelium ut de evangelio vivere possit." Some good manuscripts add, after "willingly," the words κατὰ Θεόν, "according to God," i.e. according to his will (comp. <a href="/romans/8-27.htm">Romans 8:27</a>). Not for filthy lucre. The adverb αἰσχροκερδῶς occurs only here (for the thought, comp. <a href="/1_timothy/3-8.htm">1 Timothy 3:8</a>; <a href="/titus/1-7.htm">Titus 1:7</a>). It would seem that, even in the apostolic age, there were sometimes such opportunities of gain (see <a href="/titus/1-11.htm">Titus 1:11</a>; <a href="/2_timothy/3-6.htm">2 Timothy 3:6</a>) as to be a temptation to enter the ministry for the sake of money. St. Peter uses a strong word in condemnation of such a motive. But of a ready mind. This adverb προθύμως occurs nowhere else in the New Testament; it has a stronger meaning than the preceding word ἑκουσίως, willingly; it implies zeal and enthusiasm. <a href="/commentaries/1_peter/5-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Be shepherds ποιμάνατε (poimanate) Verb - Aorist Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4165.htm">Strong's 4165: </a> To shepherd, tend, herd; hence: I rule, govern. From poimen; to tend as a shepherd of. of God’s Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. flock ποίμνιον (poimnion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4168.htm">Strong's 4168: </a> A little flock. Neuter of a presumed derivative of poimne; a flock, i.e. group. [that is] among ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. you, ὑμῖν (hymin) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. watching over them ἐπισκοποῦντες (episkopountes) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1983.htm">Strong's 1983: </a> To exercise oversight, care for, visit. From epi and skopeo; to oversee; by implication, to beware. not μὴ (mē) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3361.htm">Strong's 3361: </a> Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether. out of compulsion, ἀναγκαστῶς (anankastōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_317.htm">Strong's 317: </a> By way of compulsion, unwillingly, by force, necessarily. Adverb from a derivative of anagkazo; compulsorily. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. because it is κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). God’s Θεόν (Theon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. will; ἑκουσίως (hekousiōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_1596.htm">Strong's 1596: </a> Willingly, of one's own accord, spontaneously. Adverb from the same as hekousion; voluntarily. not μηδὲ (mēde) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3366.htm">Strong's 3366: </a> And not, not even, neither?nor. From me and de; but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor. out of greed, αἰσχροκερδῶς (aischrokerdōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_147.htm">Strong's 147: </a> Greedily, in a spirit of eagerness for base gain. Adverb from aischrokerdes; sordidly. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. out of eagerness; προθύμως (prothymōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_4290.htm">Strong's 4290: </a> Readily, eagerly, with a ready mind, cheerfully. Adverb from prothumos; with alacrity. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_peter/5-2.htm">1 Peter 5:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-2.htm">NT Letters: 1 Peter 5:2 Shepherd the flock of God which (1 Pet. 1P iP i Pet) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_peter/5-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Peter 5:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Peter 5:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_peter/5-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Peter 5:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Peter 5:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>