1 Peter 5:3
not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
What it says
Elders are not to dominate those entrusted to them but to become examples to the flock.
What it is doing
This verse defines authority through exemplary conduct rather than coercion.
In context
1As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: 2Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.