1 Peter 5 3

1 Peter 5:3 kjv

Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

1 Peter 5:3 nkjv

nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;

1 Peter 5:3 niv

not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

1 Peter 5:3 esv

not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.

1 Peter 5:3 nlt

Don't lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example.

1 Peter 5 verses

1 Peter 5 3 Meaning

1 Peter 5:3 instructs spiritual leaders, often called elders or pastors, on the correct manner of their oversight. It prohibits them from exercising their authority in a domineering, autocratic, or controlling way over the believers entrusted to their care, whom God views as His own special possession or inheritance. Instead, it directs these leaders to function as authentic, living examples and patterns for the "flock"—the Christian community—demonstrating righteous conduct, humble service, and sincere faith through their actions and character, thereby guiding rather than compelling.

1 Peter 5 3 Context

First Peter is an epistle written by the Apostle Peter to Christian communities scattered across Asia Minor, primarily to encourage and strengthen them amidst growing persecution and suffering (1 Pet 4:12-19). Chapter 5 shifts focus to specific groups within the church. In verses 1-4, Peter addresses the elders (presbyters), identifying himself as a fellow elder. He urges them to shepherd the flock of God willingly and eagerly, not for shameful gain, and most importantly, not by "lording it over" them. Verse 3 stands as a clear antithesis to the negative methods of leadership that are to be avoided. Following this, he calls younger members to submit to elders and everyone to be clothed with humility, emphasizing a shared call to lowliness of mind for the whole church. Historically and culturally, leadership in the Roman Empire was often characterized by dominance, status, and control over subjects, and Peter directly challenges this worldly model, advocating for a uniquely Christ-like, servant leadership.

1 Peter 5 3 Word analysis

• Neither as lording it over (κατακυριεύοντες - katakyrieuontes): This Greek term carries a strong sense of ruling with absolute power, exercising dominion, or oppressing. It implies an authoritarian, dictatorial, or overbearing control, distinct from gentle spiritual guidance. This verb is also used to describe Gentile rulers "lording over" their subjects in Mk 10:42 and Mt 20:25, explicitly contrasting it with the Christian leadership model. Its negative connotation signifies a spiritual abuse of authority, where the leader acts as an owner rather than a steward.
• the heritage (τῶν κλήρων - tōn klērōn): Literally meaning "the lots," "shares," or "portions." In a religious context, it often refers to what has been allotted by God, hence "God's inheritance" or "God's people." This implies that the believers under the care of the elders are God’s own precious possession, not the personal property of the leader. Elders are entrusted with God’s cherished allotment, highlighting their stewardship rather than ownership. This term reinforces that believers belong to God, making domineering actions against them an offense against the true Owner.
• but being examples (ἀλλὰ τύποι γινόμενοι - alla typoi ginomenoi): The strong contrasting conjunction "but" (ἀλλὰ) highlights a distinct shift from what not to do to what to do. "Examples" (typoi) means "patterns," "models," or "types." It signifies that leaders should embody the Christian life and teachings, serving as living illustrations of godly conduct, humility, and devotion. Leadership is fundamentally about demonstrating righteous behavior and Christ-like character, allowing their lives to be a blueprint for others to follow, rather than just giving commands.
• to the flock (τοῦ ποιμνίου - tou poimniou): "Flock" refers to the body of believers, often described as sheep needing care and guidance from a shepherd. This metaphor emphasizes the vulnerability of the followers and the protective, nurturing responsibility of the leaders. It resonates with Christ’s description of Himself as the Good Shepherd (Jn 10:11), implying that earthly shepherds must mimic His compassionate, self-sacrificial care, and never abuse their position.

1 Peter 5 3 Bonus section

The prohibition against "lording it over the heritage" implies that any form of leadership that demeans, exploits, controls, or oppresses God's people is anathema to Christian principles. This includes spiritual abuse, manipulation, financial exploitation, or demanding unquestioning loyalty that bypasses individual conscience or scripture. The term "heritage" (klērōn) can sometimes be used of the ministry tasks or gifts allotted to an elder, implying that these spiritual leaders are themselves "portions" (allotted with tasks) for God’s "portion" (His people), highlighting mutual responsibility within God’s overall design. The call to be an "example" is a weighty one, as it requires genuine spiritual maturity and vulnerability from leaders, acknowledging that their conduct directly impacts the faith and practice of those they oversee. It emphasizes authentic leadership over positional authority alone.

1 Peter 5 3 Commentary

1 Peter 5:3 is a foundational principle for Christian leadership, establishing a clear contrast between worldly domination and spiritual servanthood. Peter explicitly forbids Christian elders from acting like tyrannical rulers, "lording it over" the church as if they own its members. This command strikes at the root of human pride and self-exaltation in authority, recognizing that the "heritage"—the people—belongs solely to God. The elders are not lords but stewards of God’s most precious possession. The positive mandate that follows is equally critical: leaders must be examples. Their authority is to be exercised not through coercion, but through integrity of life, consistency of character, and a genuine embodiment of Christ's teachings. This kind of leadership wins hearts by imitation rather than compels through imposition. It means leaders walk the talk, demonstrating humility, perseverance, love, and faith, thus inspiring and guiding the "flock" in following Christ. This serves to build trust, foster spiritual growth, and glorify God. For instance, a leader facing adversity models unwavering faith; a leader resolving conflict models forgiveness; a leader teaching doctrine models a life surrendered to truth. Their lives become a living sermon that equips the body of Christ.