1 Peter 5 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of 1 Peter 5

The First Epistle of Peter was written by the apostle Peter, one of the closest followers of Jesus Christ. Peter was a fisherman by trade before being called by Jesus to become a “fisher of men. Peter provides guidance and encouragement to the early Christian community as they face persecution and hardship in this chapter.

Peter reminds the elders of the church to be good shepherds to their flock, caring for them with humility and self-sacrifice. He also exhorts the younger members to submit to the elders, and all to be humble and watchful, as the devil prowls like a roaring lion seeking to devour them. This foreshadows the trials and tribulations the early Christians would face, but also the ultimate victory they can find in Christ.

Throughout the passage, Peter draws on the wisdom of the Old Testament, quoting from the book of Proverbs when he says, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (Proverbs 3:34) He also reminds the believers of the eternal glory that awaits them if they remain steadfast in their faith, echoing the words of the prophet Isaiah, “After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” (Isaiah 40:31)

1 Peter 5:1-4

The passage in 1 Peter 5:1-4 can be broken down into several important sections. “To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed”: Here, the author, Peter, is addressing the elders, or leaders, in the Christian community. Peter, as a fellow elder, emphasizes his solidarity with them and draws attention to his role as a witness of Christ’s sufferings. Peter is not only reminding the elders of the sacrifice Jesus made but also setting an example for them to follow in terms of leadership and service by mentioning Christ’s sufferings. It also indicates that those in leadership positions should be willing to endure suffering and trials for the sake of Christ.

1. “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve”: Peter instructs the elders to act as shepherds to the people they are leading. This metaphor of shepherding underscores the idea of care, protection, and guidance that leaders should provide to the members of the Christian community. The emphasis on willingness and eagerness to serve rather than for personal gain highlights the selfless nature of leadership in the Christian faith. This aligns with Jesus’ example of being the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep (John 10:11).

2. “Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock”: Peter warns against abusing authority and power over those under their care. True leadership in the Christian context is not about dominating or controlling others but about leading by example. Jesus himself taught his disciples about servant leadership, where the greatest among them would be the one who serves others (Matthew 20:26-28).

3. Peter reminds the elders that they are ultimately accountable to Him for how they have shepherded God’s flock by referring to Jesus as the Chief Shepherd. The promise of a crown of glory that will never fade serves as an encouragement and a reminder of the eternal reward awaiting those who faithfully fulfill their roles as shepherds. This echoes the idea of storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth (Matthew 6:20). 1 Peter 5:1-4 provides a blueprint for Christian leadership characterized by humility, service, and accountability before God. It stresses the importance of leading by example, serving with willingness and integrity, and ultimately looking forward to the eternal reward promised by Christ. Through these instructions, Peter guides the elders in their responsibility to shepherd God’s people with love and diligence, mirroring the sacrificial and compassionate nature of Jesus Christ, the ultimate Shepherd of his flock.

1 Peter 5:5-7

Several significant sections in 1 Peter 5:5-7 convey valuable messages to the readers. Let’s break it down:

1. “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’”

This first part of the verse emphasizes humility and submission to authority. Peter is advising the younger members of the community to show respect and deference to their elders. This reflects the importance of honoring and learning from those who have more experience and wisdom. Peter is stressing the significance of unity and mutual respect within the Christian community by instructing the younger individuals to be humble towards one another. The idea of humility is a recurring theme in the Bible, with verses like Proverbs 11:2 stating, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”

1. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

This section underscores the importance of humility before God. Believers can find strength and comfort by submitting to God’s authority and trusting in His timing. Peter encourages the readers to cast all their anxieties and worries on God, understanding that He cares for them deeply. This message provides reassurance to Christians that God is always there for them, ready to bear their burdens and provide them with peace. This theme of casting anxieties on God is also echoed in verses like Philippians 4:6-7, which says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

1. “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Peter warns the believers to be vigilant and alert, as the devil is constantly on the prowl, looking for opportunities to attack and harm them. This vivid imagery of the devil as a roaring lion underscores the serious and constant threat posed by spiritual forces. The call to be sober-minded and watchful serves as a reminder for Christians to stay spiritually grounded, resist temptations, and remain steadfast in their faith. This aligns with other passages in the Bible such as Ephesians 6:11-12, which speaks about putting on the armor of God to stand against the schemes of the devil. 1 Peter 5:5-7 conveys important lessons on humility, trust in God, and spiritual vigilance. It encourages believers to value humility and mutual respect within the Christian community, to rely on God for comfort and strength in times of difficulty, and to stay vigilant against the schemes of the enemy. Peter’s words serve as a timeless reminder for Christians to embody these virtues in their daily lives and walk faithfully in their spiritual journey.

1 Peter 5:8-9

1 Peter 5:8-9 says, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. Peter is warning the believers in this section to be vigilant and cautious because the devil is constantly seeking to destroy them. The comparison of the devil to a roaring lion conveys a sense of danger, power, and aggression. Lions in the biblical context are often symbolic of strength and destruction. The devil is depicted as a lion seeking to devour those who are not watchful or strong in their faith. This imagery emphasizes the real and present danger Christians face in the spiritual realm.

Peter encourages believers to resist the devil by standing firm in their faith. This steadfastness in faith is crucial for withstanding the attacks and temptations of the enemy. Believers can resist the devil’s schemes by drawing on their faith and trust in God. This echoes the teachings found in Ephesians 6:10-18 about putting on the full armor of God to stand firm against the devil’s tactics. Peter moreover reminds the believers that they are not alone in their struggles. He highlights the shared experiences of suffering within the family of believers worldwide. This sense of solidarity brings comfort and strength to those facing trials and tribulations. The understanding that others are going through similar challenges can be a source of encouragement and support, fostering unity and empathy among believers. Peter’s exhortation in these verses serves as a timeless reminder for Christians to remain vigilant, grounded in their faith, and united in the face of spiritual warfare. The call to resist the devil and stand firm in the faith resonates throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of spiritual preparedness and relying on God’s strength to overcome challenges and temptations.

1 Peter 5:10-11

1. Breakdown of the verse:
2. “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (1 Peter 5:10)

3. “To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 5:11)

4. The author of 1 Peter 5 acknowledges the suffering that Christians are enduring in verses 10-11 and encourages them to remain steadfast in their faith. This passage begins by referring to God as “the God of all grace,” highlighting His infinite compassion and mercy towards His people. Through this introduction, the author wants to remind the readers that despite their current struggles, God’s grace is abundant and always available to them. This sets the tone for the assurance and hope that follows in the passage.

The verse continues by mentioning the believers’ call to “eternal glory in Christ.” This reinforces the idea that their suffering is temporary and is leading them towards an eternal reward in the presence of Christ. It reflects the biblical concept that our present trials are incomparable to the glory that awaits us in eternity. This promise serves as a source of encouragement for believers to persevere in faith, knowing that their current trials are not in vain.

The author then assures the readers that after they have “suffered a little while,” God Himself will restore, strengthen, and establish them. This restoration signifies that God will bring healing and wholeness to those who have endured hardships. This restoration can encompass physical, emotional, and spiritual healing, demonstrating God’s holistic care for His people. The reinforcement to make them “strong, firm and steadfast” emphasizes the importance of enduring faith and resilience in the face of trials. The passage concludes by ascribing power and glory to God for eternity, acknowledging His sovereignty and authority over all things. The amen at the end is a declaration of agreement and affirmation of the statements made. It serves as a reminder to the readers that all glory and power belong to God alone, and He is worthy of praise forever.

1. Connecting verses:
2. Romans 8:18: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” This verse echoes the sentiment expressed in 1 Peter 5:10, highlighting the temporary nature of suffering compared to the eternal glory that awaits believers.
3. James 1:12: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” This verse reinforces the idea of enduring trials with faith, as it leads to a promised reward from God.

1 Peter 5:12-14

A few distinct sections in 1 Peter 5:12-14 can be broken down for a deeper understanding of the message conveyed. I have written to you briefly, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God, by Silvanus, our faithful brother as I regard him. Stand firm in it. She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.”

Let’s start with the first part mentioning Silvanus, who is described as a faithful brother. Silvanus, also known as Silas, was a prominent figure in the early Christian church. He was a companion of the apostle Paul on his missionary journeys, and his name is mentioned in several letters, including in 1 Thessalonians and 2 Corinthians. Silvanus likely served as a trusted messenger for Peter, delivering and possibly even transcribing this letter to the recipients. This highlights the importance of faithful companionship and support in spreading the message of God’s grace.

The next part emphasizes the brevity of Peter’s letter, with an exhortation for the readers to stand firm in the true grace of God. This encouragement to remain steadfast in faith despite challenges and adversity resonates throughout the Bible. Paul also urges believers in 1 Corinthians 16:13 to stand firm in the faith, showing a consistent theme of endurance and perseverance in the face of trials.

The mention of “She who is at Babylon” is likely a symbolic reference to the Christian community rather than a specific individual. Babylon, as a symbolic representation of worldly power and opposition to God, could allude to the challenges and persecutions faced by the early Christians. This echoes the themes of perseverance under difficult circumstances and the need for unity and support within the body of Christ.

The greeting from Mark, referred to as “my son” by Peter, is believed to be Mark the Evangelist, who wrote the Gospel of Mark. Mark had a significant journey in his faith, starting as a companion of Paul and Barnabas on missionary trips but later parting ways with Paul due to a disagreement. However, Mark later became a valuable companion to Peter, showcasing the theme of redemption and second chances in the Christian faith.

Lastly, the instruction to greet one another with the kiss of love reflects the importance of unity and love among believers. Paul also instructs the Roman Christians to greet one another with a holy kiss in Romans 16:16, emphasizing the bond of fellowship and love shared within the faith community. The final blessing of peace to all those in Christ encapsulates the overarching message of hope, unity, and perseverance in the face of adversity that is prevalent throughout the New Testament. 1 Peter 5:12-14 conveys a message of encouragement, unity, and faithfulness in the midst of challenges. Through the mention of key figures like Silvanus, Mark, and the symbolic allusion to Babylon, the passage underscores the importance of standing firm in the grace of God, supporting one another in love, and finding peace in Christ amidst worldly tribulations.

After 1 Peter 5

Peter exhorts the elders in this chapter to shepherd the flock of God with humility and diligence, being examples to the believers. He encourages everyone to cast their anxieties on God, who cares for them. Peter warns against the devil, who prowls around seeking someone to devour, and urges believers to resist him, standing firm in their faith. As we reflect on Peter’s words, let us remember the importance of humility, trust in God’s care, and standing firm against the schemes of the enemy. We will delve deeper into the call to be alert and sober-minded in the next chapter as we continue to walk in faith and resist the adversary. We should remain steadfast in our commitment to following Christ, knowing that He is our strength and protector in all circumstances.