An excellent post by Sam Storms, giving concrete examples to help us understand exactly what Peter is commanding against when he tells pastors not to be domineering.
Here are a few especially important examples of domineering:
A pastor domineers by widening the alleged gap between “clergy” and “laity.” In other words, he reinforces in them the false belief that he has a degree of access to God which they don’t.
Related to the former is the way some pastors will make it appear that they hold sway or power over the extent to which average lay people can experience God’s grace. He presents himself in subtle (not overt) ways as the mediator between the grace of God and the average believer. In this way he can secure their loyalty for his agenda. …
He domineers by short circuiting due process, by shutting down dialogue and discussion prematurely, by not giving all concerned an opportunity to voice their opinion. . . .
He domineers by making people feel unsafe and insecure should they desire to voice an objection to his proposals and policies.
He domineers by convincing them, ever so subtly, that their spiritual welfare is dependent on his will. To cross him is to cross God!