Reading in 1 Peter, Chapter 2, I came to the section about “submission of slaves to their masters.” [vs 18-25]
Slaves and masters seem to us to be archaic terms. Because they are terms seldom used, we might think we should skip or skim through that section. We should not, however, because it holds wonderful truths.
At the end of that passage, Peter tells us to follow the example of Christ Jesus who gave His life for us. He reminds us that while He suffered, He did not threaten, but entrusted Himself “to the One who judges justly.”
Then Peter tells us that Christ Jesus bore our sins, and that by His wounds (stripes) we have been healed—a quote out of Isaiah 53. But it is the final verse of that chapter that drew my attention this morning. It begins with another quote from Isaiah 53.
“For you were like sheep going astray, but you have now returned to the Shepherd and Guardian [overseer in the NKJV] of your souls.” [HCSB]
The word for Guardian [HCSB] or Overseer [NKJV] is episkopos. Traditionally that word has been applied to a position of authority. But in reality, the focus is upon the responsibility of caring for others.
That is what a guardian does. The role of a guardian (even in our day and age) is to ensure that the person under their care receives proper care and support in all aspects of their life.
Beloved, the One who died for us, Christ Jesus our Savior and Master, has taken on the responsibility of Guardian of our souls. Rejoice!