Bede : Nor as being lords over those assigned to your care, etc. So that the humility, which you desire your subjects to have towards you and among themselves, you may first show by your own actions and keep in your own mind intact, according to the word of the Lord: "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant; and whoever wants to be first among you must be the servant of all" (Matthew XXIII). Paul carefully observing this precept says: "For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake." — Commentary on the Catholic Epistles Hilary of Arles : Even though you may have authority over the church in what you say or in the office which you occupy, you should never have a superior attitude toward others. — INTRODUCTORY COMMENTARY ON 1 PETER Oecumenius : Moreover, he does not feed the flock coercively, who, by presenting himself as an example of good conduct to his subordinates, has disciples who mutually encourage each other to imitate their teacher: Nor does he seek for shameful gain, who walks not arrogantly nor raises himself against those under him, but converses humbly, maintaining a constant frugality that requires no expense for costly garments or a lavish table, which receives pride with applause and seeks expense from shameful gain. Peter calls the clergy a sacred assembly, just as we do even now. Furthermore, by adding, "but being examples to the flock," Peter instructs that they should not feed the flock as if coercively. — Commentary on 1 Peter Paschasius of Dumium : Practice what you preach, so that you may offer your people not only advice but a model as well, that they may imitate your example. — QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS OF THE GREEK FATHERS 43.1