“When the Chief Shepherd appears” is the second coming of Jesus Christ returning for His Church. The Chief Shepherd is Jesus, Himself. This becomes an encouragement to those who are elders to be the best shepherd possible. The question you might ask yourself is “How did Jesus shepherd?” To find the full answer would require you spend time reading and studying the Gospels. A key word to describe Jesus’ shepherding is compassion. Jesus cared about the individual and this is a quality every elder needs to have. When individuals know you care they will be more willing to listen to your instructions. Another quality Jesus had was to teach the truth, always in a loving and caring way and yet, when it was necessary He was very stern. The list of qualities could continue but these two areas are enough to show elders they need to strive to be like Jesus as they shepherd His flock.
“When” will Jesus “appear”? You can be sure it will happen, because all the prophecies in the Old Testament of His first coming were fulfilled. Throughout the New Testament you will find bits and pieces concerning the Second Coming, but you will not find a definite date for Jesus’ return. In fact, no one knows when Jesus will return accept the Father. All of the dates set are just a guessing game. But there signs are given telling us we better be prepared for Jesus will come at any time. When Jesus appears then it is too late. Are you ready?
The end result is “you will receive the crown of glory”. Upon Jesus’ return every individual will be rewarded accordingly to what they have or have not done. This particular instance refers to the elders. After the instructions Peter has given, if the elders fulfill these instructions they “will receive the crown of glory”. The first crown to come mind is a physical crown given as a reward made of a wreath of flowers or it might be a crown of silver or gold. On other occasions, a reward would be given for military victories or at a wedding celebration. The reward for all of these occasions will fade, tarnish or perish. They are only temporary. “The crown of glory” promised was different; it would “never fade away”. Any thing on this earth will perish, but “the crown of glory” will never perish. The focus has been on the eldership, but the promise is to all faithful Christians. Will you receive the crown? It is up to you. CONSIDER THIS VERY CAREFULLY FOR YOUR PLACE IN ETERNITY DEPENDS ON YOUR RESPONSE!!!