Reading 1 Peter 5:1-5 in the New Living Translation might be of help:
5 And now, a word to you who are elders in the churches. I, too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: 2 Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. 3 Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. 4 And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor. 5 In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
The Apostle Peter is addressing the elders (leaders) of the Christian church, explaining their responsibilities towards those in their congregation.
With humility, Peter saw himself not as above anyone in hierarchy, but as an equal servant. In verse 1, Peter clarified that he was a witness of Christ. He told the brethren he was their “fellow elder” and not above the other elders. Peter was very explicit in this matter when counseling the elders to “feed the flock of God.” He did not say your flock, your people, your church, as many ministers today speak, but the flock of God, not as lords of the heritage, but being patterns to the flock – patterns of humility, faithfulness, zeal and godliness.
Elders are to shepherd the flock and serve as overseers. They are to serve out of a willing heart. They are to serve, not for money, but out of a willing heart. They are to serve, not in a dominating way, but as a living example of Christlikeness.
Elders are to be humble, meek and courteous so the people have an example to copy from. As servants, they are not to act as rulers over the people. The Lord does not raise up rulers from among our brethren in the body of Christ, but he does raise up faithful leaders who should be excellent examples for all.
Those who have been called to leadership positions amongst the Lord’s people should consider this an honor and a privilege from the Lord, but it also has great temptation and great danger of pride that comes with power and oversight. God’s holy spirit (His power and influence) drive the elders, and it should be God’s spirit that gives them responsibility to serve the congregation. Without God’s spirit, church is just a social gathering.
The true followers of Christ will have a share in his glory when they are resurrected.
Leaders are to feed the flock truth, guard against “wolves in sheep’s clothing” and be willing to assume the responsibilities of service, ready to serve the brethren without thought of monetary compensation.
We are to be subject to the Lord and every ordinance of God, and to consider the truly consecrated people of God as a unit and to seek to cooperate one with another. God resists the boastful, self-seeking and proud in spirit.
Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1140: “Does My Church Leadership Have It Right?”
Uncovering what biblical church organization and leadership look like
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes