Local Church Leadership

As we near the close of Peter’s letter, his attention turns to the leaders in the church. He describes not only what the elders are to do but also how they are to do it. There are appropriate ways to exercise oversight of the flock of God but also inappropriate ways that are warned against. It is important for leaders in the church to operate “as God would have you.” But Peter isn’t only addressing the leaders. Instruction for the whole church is found in this closing chapter as well and when this instruction is heeded, there is grace from God for all.