Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.
1 Peter 5:3
Domineering means to overpower, to rule harshly, to control through force.
Peter once tried to protect Jesus with a sword. Now he writes about influence through example. The Spirit has reshaped him.
Authority in Christ’s kingdom is never coercive. It is persuasive. It flows from character.
Being an example means becoming a pattern. A visible model of obedience. A life others can trace.
Not intimidation.
Not manipulation.
But imitation.
Control demands compliance. Example inspires trust.
Whether in church, home, classroom, or workplace, the principle remains: people follow authenticity before they follow instruction.
Leadership is not about being obeyed. It is about being observed and imitated.
Lord, help us lead by example. Teach us to treat others with the care and concern you show for us. Help us take up the towel and serve others as we point them to you.
Imitating Christ,
eep
