1 Peter 5:1-14 NKJV
5 The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 3 nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 4 and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.
5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for
“God resists the proud,
But gives grace to the humble.”
6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7 casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. 11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
12 By Silvanus, our faithful brother as I consider him, I have written to you briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand.
13 She who is in Babylon, elect together with you, greets you; and so does Mark my son. 14 Greet one another with a kiss of love.
Peace to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
In 1 Peter 5:1-14, the apostle Peter provides guidance and encouragement to both the elders and the younger members of the Christian community. As believers, we approach this passage with a deep reverence for Scripture and a desire to understand and apply its teachings faithfully.
Peter begins by addressing the elders (pastors), exhorting them to shepherd (“pastor”) the flock of God entrusted to their care with diligence, humility, and eagerness. Elders (pastors) are called to lead by example, not lording over those under their charge, but being examples of Christ’s love, compassion, and servanthood.
Moreover, Peter encourages younger members of the community to submit to the authority of their elders (pastors), recognizing the wisdom and experience they bring to the body of Christ. Humility, he emphasizes, is essential for all believers, as they cast their cares upon God, who cares for them.
Peter then exhorts believers to be sober-minded and vigilant, recognizing the reality of spiritual warfare and the schemes of the devil. Believers are called to resist the devil, standing firm in their faith, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles, but are supported by a community of believers around the world.
Furthermore, Peter reminds believers of the grace and peace that are theirs in Christ Jesus, who has called them to His eternal glory. In the midst of suffering and trials, believers are encouraged to cast all their anxieties upon God, who will sustain them and strengthen them.
In conclusion, today’s passage serves as a timely reminder of the importance of humble leadership, mutual submission, and steadfast faith in the Christian community. As believers, may we heed Peter’s exhortation and strive to live lives marked by humility, grace, and perseverance, knowing that our ultimate hope and confidence are found in Christ alone. Let us pray: O Lord our God, order the course of this world in peace that your Church may joyfully serve you in all godly quietness; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.