The command translated as “shepherd” in 1 Peter 5:2 is plural, indicating that the (one) flock had multiple shepherds (Luke 2:8). The addition of the word “chief” denotes the leader among these shepherds. This man made the big decisions (e.g., where to pasture the flock) and it was he who paid the (under) shepherds their wages, etc. In the current context, this chief Shepherd is indisputably a reference to Jesus Christ (John 10:11; Hebrews 13:20; 1 Peter 2:25). Since he is physically absent, he gives his under-shepherds the instructions they need to care well for his flock. See further Matthew 24:45–51.
4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.