Exiles: Week Nineteen

1 Peter 5:1-4

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11

Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. Acts 20:28

  1. The Elder’s Task (5:1-2a)

  2. The Elder’s Character (5:2b-3)

  3. The Elder’s Reward (5:4)

Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. 2 Timothy 3:12

LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. How does considering the truth that Christ is the chief Shepherd guard us against thinking too much of our human leaders? Too little?

  2. How does this passage shape our own expectations of, and prayers for, our church leaders? What are the ways you could best support, encourage, and pray for your church leaders to fulfill the pattern outlined in these verses?

  3. How does this passage shape our own expectations of, and prayers for, our own spiritual growth?

  4. Why do we find it hard to accept that we are prone to wander, and need shepherds? In what way do you personally find this hardest?