1 Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of glory that will never fade away.
Today we jump to 1 Peter where we find our next name – Chief Shepherd. There are many verses, both New and Old Testament, that refer to God as a Shepherd. But today’s verse calls Him the CHIEF Shepherd. But what does that mean and how does it affect us?
The role of a shepherd is simple – to care for and guide a group of animals, like sheep, goats, or cattle. The shepherd protects them from danger and enemies. The shepherd watches for threats and defends their animals, as needed.
Jesus is our Shepherd. He cares for and guides us, protecting us from danger and watching for threats in case He needs to defend us.
In the church, pastors are seen as shepherds. They are there to care for and guide their congregations. The leaders of the church (elders or deacons) are also shepherds. Without them shepherding the members, the church cannot be built up (1 Peter 5:2). They have a role to do, a purpose for being in leadership, and they follow the Chief Shepherd Himself, modeling this to the congregation. Christ is the Chief Shepherd, meaning He is the one who is above all others, the first and original, the one in charge and overseeing the others.
The rest of the verse promises that when our Chief Shepherd appears we will be given a crown of glory that will never fade away. This crown is a symbolic reward or recognition of great honor and achievement. This crown we will receive is the highest level of recognition and reward for the lives we live dedicated to Him.
Are you following the Chief Shepherd? Today is a great day to let Him be the Shepherd of YOUR life.
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