What's a Crook?

I've always heard of criminals referred to as crooks.  Recently, I was studying the role of the elder or pastor as shepherd and was struck with this thought.  Jesus is the Chief Shepherd according to 1 Peter 5:4.  Not only has He ordained leaders of the church to shepherd, but He has also ordained the governing authorities (Romans 13:1).  When someone is caught breaking the law, it is God's mercy at work.  Through the governing authorities, He is catching the wayward with the crook of the staff and pulling them from a destructive path.  Unfortunately and far too often, many crooks harden their hearts and view this as punishment and not mercy.  Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and His desire is that all would turn from our sins and turn our hearts toward Him.

2 Peter 3:9

⁹ The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.