[a][b]Feed the [c]flock of God, [d]which dependeth upon you, [e]caring for it not by constraint, but willingly: not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind:

Not as though ye were Lords over God’s [f]heritage, but that ye may be examples to the flock.

[g]And when that chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive an incorruptible crown of glory.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Peter 5:2 The first rule: He that is a shepherd, let him feed the flock.
  2. 1 Peter 5:2 He saith not, Offer for the quick and dead, and sing patched shreds in a strange tongue, but (Feed.)
  3. 1 Peter 5:2 The second: Let the shepherd consider, that the flock is not his, but God’s.
  4. 1 Peter 5:2 The third: Let not the shepherds invade other men’s flocks, but let them feed that which God hath committed unto them.
  5. 1 Peter 5:2 Let the shepherds govern the Church with the word and example of godly and unblamable life, not by constraint but willingly, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, not as Lords over God’s portion and heritage, but as his ministers.
  6. 1 Peter 5:3 Which is the Christian people.
  7. 1 Peter 5:4 That the shepherds’ minds be not overcome either with the wickedness of men, or their cruelty, he warneth them to cast their eyes continually upon that chief Shepherd, and the crown which is laid up for them in heaven.

Be shepherds of God’s flock(A) that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be;(B) not pursuing dishonest gain,(C) but eager to serve; not lording it over(D) those entrusted to you, but being examples(E) to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd(F) appears, you will receive the crown of glory(G) that will never fade away.(H)

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