1Peter 5

Humility, Anxiety, God’s Power and Care

Often, it is under the greatest affliction that we see Him most clearly. In addition to caring about every concern we might have, God has all the perfect answers and will cause all things to be used for His glory in due time.

1Peter 5:6-7 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Therefore means accordingly, or in conjunction with what was written beforehand. We need to ask ourselves, ‘What has the Apostle Peter been saying in the first five verses of this letter?’ Go back, read it, and refresh your memory. Then continue to the instructions beginning in verse 6.

humble yourselves.

“Be willing to take a low place--a place such as becomes you. Do not arrogate to yourselves what does not belong to you; do not evince pride and haughtiness in your manner; do not exalt yourselves above others”, Barnes.

I had to look up what the word ‘arrogate’ meant. The definition I found says it means to demand as being one’s due or property; to assert one’s right to something. Remembering that our claim to being God’s child and to having a future in Heaven is only because of what Jesus did, will help keep our heart humble. We do not deserve to be saved; we are not owed blessings. Any success we may achieve is because of God’s doing. Our willingness to remain humble before the leaders God has set in place honors God. If you take away Jesus, we are doomed. We are all on the same road having the same purpose – either the glory of Heaven because we’ve been called by Him, or the sting of Hell because we have denied Him. If I accept His call – it’s to His glory; if I deny His call – it’s to my condemnation. These truths are what keeps us humble because they point to God’s grace.

1Peter 3:15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness [humility] and reverence;

1Peter 5:5 You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.

Do we have the right view of ourselves? Our opinions are not as significant as we might sometimes like to think when we consider Christ who died for our sins. We are precious in God’s sight only because of Jesus. Consider who you are without Christ. We need to recognize our need of Christ and realize it is only through Him that we are counted as God’s children. We are saved by faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone. Nothing of ourselves can save us. When we live in this truth, we will view ourselves low and lift God high. Obedience to His word glorifies His name.

Are there specific circumstances where you struggle with having a humble heart?

Are you able to relate to any of the following statements –

You don’t like what someone says; you don’t like what someone does; you resent the rules of authority because you feel they are unfair; you believe your way is best; you don’t understand someone else’s plan; you think some rules are foolish or not necessary so you choose to ignore them; you feel you might have to give up something important to you. What do these statements have in common?

Proverbs 15:33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, and before honor comes humility.

Proverbs 18:12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, but humility goes before honor.

Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Under the mighty hand of God refers to His power over all. If we revisit the beginning of Peter’s letter in Chapter One, we will remember he is writing to those who have been scattered because of their faith and are distressed by severe trials. Through these trials, God is refining them.

1Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

Consider, when we are at our lowest point, God is highest, when we have exhausted our own efforts, then we more readily submit to His plan to deliver us. When there is nothing left in ourselves, when we are spent and needy, we more easily rely upon God’s intervention and grace to see us through. Often, it is under the greatest affliction that we see Him most clearly. However, the goal is to learn and choose to rely upon God quickly in all circumstances, not just when we have no more resources and are suffering.

Deuteronomy 3:24 'O Lord GOD, You have begun to show Your servant Your greatness and Your strong hand; for what god is there in heaven or on earth who can do such works and mighty acts as Yours?

“The more we see of God's glory in his works, the more we desire to see. And the more we are affected with what we have seen of God, the better we are prepared for farther discoveries”, John Wesley’s Notes. When you consider the strength and power of God, a submissive heart will bow before Him in humility and be happy in doing so. Do you easily submit to God’s direction, or do you fight against it?

“When we have to do with Satan and his temptations, resistance may be of good use to us: "resist the devil, and he will flee from you:" but when we have to do with God and his chastisements, it is in vain to oppose. His hand is too mighty for us; there is no way but to submit, and to humble ourselves under it, by acknowledging our weakness, and resigning our will and desires to his wisdom and goodness”. Bp. Sanderson.

Being under the mighty hand of God is a blessing! When you are discouraged, it helps to look back upon God’s faithfulness in your life. He will never leave nor forsake you if you are His child. However, as a loving Father, He will allow you to undergo what is necessary to grow your faith, trust, and obedience in His plan.

That He may exalt you at the proper time

Luke 14:11 "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

In due time, or in season, God will cause all things to work for His glory and His children’s good. Note, this is not in our timing but in God’s. When we are in the midst of trials, we are called to be patient and wait on God. When we see the proud gaining triumph and momentum, it is difficult to focus ahead on the future of God’s deliverance. We always need to be humbled before Him, to trust in His plans and timing. How can we help one another to have patience through trials?

The proper time may be in our near future here on earth, but definitely will be our future in Heaven. Think of Hebrews Chapter Eleven which lists the ‘heroes of faith’ who acted according to God’s word regardless of the outcome. Peter was reminding these Believers to stay the course, to keep their sight on Jesus, to acknowledging His power and trust in His plan. There is always hope at the end of the tunnel when you genuinely rely upon God. One day, we will be in glory with Him.

Psalm 89:16-17 In Your name they rejoice all the day, and by Your righteousness they are exalted. For You are the glory of their strength, and by Your favor our horn is exalted. (The word horn refers to their power and honor; it can also be a reference to an actual horn which was worn around the neck and lifted high in triumph in response to God’s favor. Treasury of David). In other words, any triumph and all goodness is because of God and for His glory. Praise Him for His works and faithfulness.

Moving on to 1Peter 5:7, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Anxiety, merimna, means cares or distractions. Think of the many distractions which enter your mind. Do we allow the cares of this world to pull our focus away from God? God cares for each of His children’s concerns. Whatever troubles you, or in any affliction, you can cast, or literally throw to God your deepest concerns; He’s got this! The first thing that came to my mind was the act of casting a line in a body of water to fish but there is a significant difference in the meaning. When we cast a line in fishing, it is done over and over again hoping to catch something. When we cast our cares upon Jesus, He immediately hears us and gives us the strength to walk through a difficult situation in a way which glorifies His name.

The verb casting literally means to ‘throw upon’. When you throw something away, you get rid of it. For myself, I must really consider whether I have truly given my concerns to Christ or just voiced my concerns, continuing to hold them close enough to pick them up again.

Think of the idiom, ‘having a shoulder to cry on or lean on’. It means having someone who is willing to listen to your problems and give you sympathy, emotional support, and encouragement. In addition to caring about every concern we might have, God has all the perfect answers and will cause all things to be used for His glory in due time. This includes concerns you have for yourself, your family, your friends, your leaders, your workplace, your finances, your health, and all else you can think of.

Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

What does it mean to you when you read the words, ‘He cares for you’? Is your confidence placed in God? If so, you will not worry about tomorrow. There is a great advantage for those who humble themselves before God, who trust in His goodness and His ultimate plan. Consider. What does focusing on your cares, worries, or anxieties accomplish? Instead, are you able to rely completely on God’s providence?

Matthew 6:30-33 "But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! "Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' "For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

There are incredible blessings for God’s children who seek to follow His direction with a heart and mind of humility while recognizing the omnipotence and omniscience of their Heavenly Father, trusting in His perfect plan.

“Father, mother, neighbour, friend, those whom you have loved, and those to whom you have done good, may neglect you, but God never will. You may become poor, and they may pass by you; you may lose your office, and flatterers may no longer throng your path; your beauty may fade, and your admirers may leave you; you may grow old, and be infirm, and appear to be useless in the world, and no one may seem to care for you; but it is not thus with the God whom you serve. When he loves, he always loves; if he regarded you with favour when you were rich, he will not forget you when you are poor; he who watched over you with a parent's care in the bloom of youth, will not cast you off when you are "old and grey-headed," Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Do you allow anxious thoughts to distract you? What can you do to avoid unnecessary worry?

“Casting all your care upon him; The Apostle means no doubt that anxious and disquieting solicitude, which distracts the mind, perplexes all our thoughts, breaks and confounds all our measures, and so, not only does more harm than good, but betrays a want of consideration and religion. Such a perplexity indeed must needs be very blamable; because it plainly argues that the providence of God over all his creatures, and his tender concern for the faithful in particular, make none, or much too feeble, impression upon our souls”. British Family Bible, Dean Stanhope.

In other words, if we truly believe that God cares for us and loves us and has a perfect plan for us, then, we will not be distracted or disturbed by difficulties of any kind. We will be able to cast our cares upon Him with confidence, leave them at His throne, and have peace.

1Peter 4:19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Casting your worries on God does not mean you have no thought or compassion for difficult situations. We are to care for one another, come alongside one another, and share in their grief and joy. We should care enough to bring our constant prayer to God for problems and praise. We cannot ignore the problems we must address. We will feel sadness and loss. It is the overwhelming and consuming thoughts that cause rash decisions and distraction from God that is warned against. We are to do all we can to improve a situation, then we trust in God’s plan to unfold.

“The meaning is, that we are to commit our whole cause to him. If we suffer heavy trials; if we lose our friends, health, or property; if we have arduous and responsible duties to perform; if we feel that we have no strength, and are in danger of being crushed by what is laid upon us, we may go and cast all upon the Lord; that is, we may look to him for grace and strength, and feel assured that he will enable us to sustain all that is laid upon us. The relief in the case will be as real, and as full of consolation, as if he took the burden and bore it himself. He will enable us to bear with ease what we supposed we could never have done”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Family Bible Notes says, “A sure and effectual relief from oppressive cares is a cheerful submission to the will of God, choosing to have him do as seemeth him good because he does all things well”. What is your response?
God cares for you – He has an interest in you, you matter to Him, and His direction is always best. Do you have confidence in His care? Why or why not? Do you believe God cares about every one of your concerns?

Ps 40:17 Since I am afflicted and needy, let the Lord be mindful of me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God.

Psalm 34:15 The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and His ears are open to their cry.

Luke 12:32 "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.

One reference says the word for ‘careth’ [KJV] implies “providential loving guardianship”. (Annotated Bible Notes)

God is our Heavenly Father; He has adopted us into His kingdom. Is there anything good He would not do for you?

“In the mean while, whatever uncertainties and dangers may attend you, endeavour to live as easy as possible; casting all your anxious care, and all those burdens that might otherwise occasion it, upon him; leaving it to his all-wise and all-gracious providence to determine every event of your lives; for he careth for you, in a manner the most effectual; and his tender care will accomplish infinitely more than your utmost anxiety can possibly effect”, Doddridge.

Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

Luke 21:18 "Yet not a hair of your head will perish.

Once you have done all you are required to do and have taken responsibility for any action and thought that is yours to own, then it is out of your hands, and you can leave your trust in God’s mighty power and plan. His wisdom and goodness are perfect. Therefore, you can rest in Him.

Pride and Humility

1Peter 3:3-4 Your adornment must not be merely external–braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

1Peter 5:5

Before we look at verse 5, let’s review verses 1-4. Peter addressed the elders, specifically those who were older in age and leaders of the church; perhaps this would have included those who were also older in the faith. The word used for elders is presbuteros which literally means older or a senior. He includes himself with them showing his humility, addressing himself as their fellow elder. His general instruction to the elders was to shepherd God’s children – exercising oversight, according to God’s will, with eagerness. This charge was not to be felt as a burden but rather an opportunity. God did not commission them to control the flock; instead, they were to lead by example, all the while looking forward to their promise of Heaven. Moving on to verse 5-

1Peter 5:5 You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.

Beginning in verse five, Peter addresses the younger men – those who were newer in the faith or youthful. The word used for younger is neos meaning youthful or regenerate, in age, newer to the faith. He begins with the word Likewise, meaning similarly. In other words, take heed to the instruction given previously and submit to the elders, same word as in verse one, presbuteros, meaning older, or a senior, especially an Israelite Sanhedrist or Christian elder. being subject to them, obeying them. This subjection is not under duress, but by choice.

Ephesians 5:21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

Having the fear of Christ is a reverential love for Him which motivates us to please Him in obedience. The reason for our willing attitude of subjection towards those in leadership is our love for Jesus. Think! If we all seek to serve one another, holding one another as precious in God’s sight, recognizing we can learn from one another, then we are all blessed.

Why would this be good practice?

Often there are those around us who have already gone through similar experiences; those older than us or more mature in the faith, who have learned through application of God’s word, what to do and what not to do, what it looks like in real life circumstances, what actions glorify God and what to avoid, how to encourage others with Truth rather than be a discouragement to others. We have tools that help us stay the course, yet we must be willing to recognize that we do not have all the answers and we benefit from the help, direction, and examples of others.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.

Peter goes on to include everyone in his instruction – and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another. Each person is to willingly place themselves in subjection to one another – unless we are asked to sin. Let’s not miss that tiny word all. No one is exempt, this applies to everyone, in any manner and means, always, every day in every way, whatsoever and whosoever. All means all! This is an important instruction to grasp because we will run across people who seem more difficult to serve for one reason or another. It is those who are struggling most who need our compassion and unconditional love. Consider the example of Jesus.

Mark 10:45 "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."

John 13:14 "If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.

1Timothy 2:1-6 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.

We should cultivate a mutual respect for one another’s thoughts and decisions. Sometimes we think we have the best idea or understanding of a situation, however, it is so important that we are able to lay aside our own preferences in order to keep peace and unity in leadership. You may feel strongly about your plans, but others feel just as strongly about theirs. It is possible you may not always agree with decisions that are made, yet unless it is sin, we can choose to follow, praying and trusting that God is working in the lives of those who are leading. Without this humility towards one another, it is difficult for anything to be accomplished or to move forward. For example, the Bible tells us to honor our father and mother. There are probably an infinite number of ways this can be done; therefore, it will look different for everyone. Circumstances vary, so there is not one way to do this. How I might fulfill this command may look quite different than how you follow this command. Neither is the best way; neither is wrong, unless you simply refuse to obey God’s command.

Ephesians 5:21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;

When we think of clothing ourselves with a garment, we are covered with something. What others see on the outside – our actions – should be proof of our humility in our heart, the inside. The words, ‘clothe yourselves’, are perhaps alluding to the outer garment or apron commonly worn by slaves. “They were to be willing to take any place, and to perform any office, however humble, in order to serve and benefit others. … they were to be willing to occupy any station, however humble, by which they might honour God”, Barnes.

Are you willing to serve in any way? Sometimes we may have an idea of where we want to serve; often, God has a different plan. We need to be willing to go through whatever doors God opens for us, even if we do not see it as our strength, or it seems like it might not be as fun as other ministries. God knows where He can use us best.

What examples in the world do you see where there is a problem with individuals insisting on their own way?

Why do you wear clothing? What does it mean to ‘clothe yourself with humility’?

Practically, it means to gird oneself for labor, the apron being a badge of servitude (Strong’s Greek Dictionary), being ready to serve. Think of it as being prepared. The words ‘clothe yourselves with humility’, mean to esteem or regard another as more important than yourself, it is a courteous regard for people’s feelings, a disposition or tendency to yield to the will of others. It can mean to oblige others or to have a mutual respect for others. Humility should become such an integral part of our character that we are continually clothed by it in our thoughts and actions. Are your thoughts and actions covered in humility; is your motivation a humble heart?

1Peter 5:5 goes on to explain why we are to have a heart of humility. It reads, for God is opposed to the proud. Pride is not the character quality you want to be described by if you are a Christian. Pride is a product of the world’s thinking. People like to be important, they become proud of their accomplishments or position. In general, people like glory to be focused on them. They take ownership of their abilities rather than giving glory to God for what He is doing in their life. But the Apostle Peter says this is not in accordance with God’s teachings. Instead of ‘look at what I’ve done’, it should be ‘look at what God has done’.

Think of what it means for God to oppose you, to be against you. I have two reactions towards this thought. First, it terrifies me to consider not only the absence of God’s blessings, but the sting of His wrath. Second, it saddens me to consider the thought of rejecting His most precious gift to us, given out of love. You may understand what it is like to live life without being obedient towards God’s commands and without the understanding of His grace towards you – fear and hopelessness is a fair description of that time.

But gives grace to the humble. God grants His favor to those who are humbled so that they can continue to walk in humility through difficult circumstances.

Proverbs 3:34 Though He scoffs at the scoffers, yet He gives grace to the afflicted.

This verse does not mean I need to be afflicted to receive God’s grace, it does mean that when I go through trials, when I look to God for deliverance, He will give me the grace needed to walk through a difficult situation in a way which glorifies Him.

James 4:6 But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE."

James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.

Pride in oneself opposes God. It is okay to have a correct estimate of your strengths and abilities, yet we need to recognize that all we are and all we have is from God to be used for His glory. We are to put no importance on ourselves, understanding our desperate need for humility so that we are constant in our desire to lift God high rather than ourselves. We are nothing without Christ.

Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

When we are clothed in humility, our actions, thoughts, words, and motivations are directed by a submissive spirit to God. How can we tell if we are not acting humble?

Are you able to subject yourself to others, receiving direction and correction with humility? – Even if you disagree. Or do you insist on your own way?

1Peter 3:3-4 Your adornment must not be merely external--braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.

"Let your minds, behaviour, garb, and whole frame, be adorned with humility, as the most beautiful habit you can wear; this will render obedience and duty easy and pleasant; but, if you be disobedient and proud, God will set himself to oppose and crush you; for he resisteth the proud, when he giveth grace to the humble." Observe,

1. Humility is the great preserver of peace and order in all Christian churches and societies, consequently pride is the great disturber of them, and the cause of most dissensions and breaches in the church.

2. There is a mutual opposition between God and the proud, so the word signifies; they war against him, and he scorns them; he resisteth the proud, because they are like the devil, enemies to himself and to his kingdom among men, Pr 3:34.

3. Where God giveth grace to be humble, he will give more grace, more wisdom, faith, holiness, and humility”. MHC

Serving for the Benefit of Others

Since we are all servants of the Lord, each of us has opportunities to encourage, to share Truths from God’s word, to edify one another – all for God’s glory.

1Peter 5:2-4

Recall from our last study, the Apostle Peter counts himself among those who are leading the church. He does this with humility and describes himself as one who has witnessed the sufferings of Christ, and one who is promised the glory of Heaven. In the next few verses, Peter gives general instruction to the leaders of the church, explains the details of his instruction, and encourages them with a reminder of their future in Christ.

1Peter 5:2-4 shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

The Apostle gives a general instruction to shepherd the flock, then he describes what it means. He answers the question, ‘How are we to do this?’.

By exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God;

Not for sordid gain, but with eagerness;

Nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.

The ‘flock’ are those who follow Jesus, those who belong to God. The elders or ministers of the church are to care for God’s children. This is a serious stewardship and responsibility. Thought – do you pray for the elders in your church? How difficult do you think it might be to oversee individuals who have different personalities, come from different backgrounds and experiences, and are in varying stages of spiritual growth and maturity?

Shepherds guide their flock to food, and they protect their flock. The KJV reads ‘feed the flock’. Peter would well remember this same charge repeatedly given to him by Jesus. Recall that three times Peter had denied Jesus (Matthew 26:70,72,74). In the book of John, we read the interaction between the risen Christ and Peter. Jesus questions Peter’s love for him three times; then Jesus gives him a charge to care for the church – three times. The repetition of this exchange is important to show Peter’s genuine repentance, but also the repetition to shepherd the flock shows it is gravely important.

John 21:15-17 So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus *said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?" He *said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He *said to him, "Tend My lambs." He *said to him again a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?" He *said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He *said to him, "Shepherd My sheep." He *said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?" Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, "Do you love Me?" And he said to Him, "Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You." Jesus *said to him, "Tend My sheep.

Paul gave the same instruction to the elders in Ephesus as they gathered in Miletus. Acts 20:28 "Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.

When you read this verse, what insights do you have? I thought it was interesting when I read one commentary on the explanation of feeding the flock. It simply said, ‘Do not fleece the flock’ (Adam Clarke’s Commentary). The meaning is quite clear – to fleece someone means to rip them off for your own benefit. This is the opposite of feeding the flock with the purpose of growing their understanding and desiring their individual blessing as a result. It is the opposite of caring for them. The leaders were to shepherd the flock of God among them, or those in close proximity to them. They were to shepherd the flock diligently and willingly, not because they had to but because they wanted to.

“Not by constraint, but willingly. Not as if you felt that a heavy yoke was imposed on you, or a burden from which you would gladly be discharged. Go cheerfully to your duty as a work which you love, and act like a freeman in it, and not as a slave. Arduous as are the labours of the ministry, yet there is no work on earth in which a man can and should labour more cheerfully”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; They were to care for the church, understanding they were stewards of God’s church, and they were to set the greater interest of their ministry on those who were in their immediate surroundings. God has purposefully placed His children right where He wants them. Not by compulsion – as if forced to do so, but voluntarily – willingly. Think of the difference between being made to do something and wanting to do something. The church at the time Peter wrote this was under persecution; overseeing the spiritual care of individuals was a difficult task. Serving should not be looked upon as a burden.

Although these instructions are written to a specific group of individuals – the elders and leaders of the church – this does not mean we can cast away the principles set before us. Since we are all servants of the Lord, each of us has opportunities to encourage, to share Truths from God’s word, to edify one another – all for God’s glory.

Do you serve willingly with a cheerful heart, grateful for the opportunities God gives you? Or do you serve because you feel pressured to do so?

What is the attitude of your service? Are we truly desiring spiritual growth and blessing in other’s lives?

The purpose of our service is to glorify God, the mission of our service is to share the Gospel. We are to act according to God’s will, not our own. Our service should not be for our own gain, but the blessing and spiritual growth of others; this is what glorifies God.

When our sight is on God’s glory, we are not as easily discouraged. We cannot be driven by what we think but rather our actions are to be based on the Truths in God’s Word. How can we be certain we are acting according to God’s will rather than our own desires?

Psalm 54:6 Willingly I will sacrifice to You; I will give thanks to Your name, O LORD, for it is good.

Psalm 78:70-72 He also chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; from the care of the ewes with suckling lambs He brought him to shepherd Jacob His people, and Israel His inheritance. So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands.

And not for sordid gain, but with eagerness;

Are you looking to get or give? Are you seeking to be noticed?

Again, be certain of your motivation. We should not serve to look important or to be recognized. If this is your goal, you will be easily discouraged and lose your interest and become disenchanted with others. Instead, we should serve willingly, always motivated by our love for God and for one another.

“But of a ready mind. Cheerfully, promptly. We are to labour in this work, not under the influence of the desire of gain, but from the promptings of love. There is all the difference conceivable between one who does a thing because he is paid for it and one who does it from love--between, for example, the manner in which one attends on us when we are sick who loves us, and one who is merely hired to do it”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge,

The leaders in the church were not to think of themselves as greater than those they were shepherding; theirs was not a position of control but of shepherding, teaching, and caring for the flock. Looking at the translation of these words, it could be worded ‘but not in a manner of dominating God’s children’. Everyone, especially those in any kind of leadership position, needs to remember they are stewards in all roles God has placed them. It is an honor and a privilege to serve our Lord. Remember, those who are called by God belong to Him.

Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them to Himself and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. "It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."

2Corinthians 1:24 Not that we lord it over your faith, but are workers with you for your joy; for in your faith you are standing firm.

The leaders of the church are to guide the flock, feed the flock, and protect the flock, not in a position of absolute authority or dominion, but with a heart of love. There are many so-called religions whose leaders place themselves in a position of authority and lordship which is exactly opposite of the teachings we find in God’s word. Think of the pharisees dressing in a certain way to be recognized. All honor and glory is to be for God alone.

Jeremiah 3:15 "Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you on knowledge and understanding.

“Preacher or minister, whosoever thou art, who readest this, apply not the word to thy neighbour, whether he be state-appointed, congregation-appointed, or self-appointed; take all to thyself; ... See that thy own heart, views, and conduct be right with God”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

But proving to be examples to the flock. “Not assuming to yourselves dominion over those who fall to your lot; but being humble, and behaving towards them with such gentle, tender solicitude for their souls, and such an entire freedom from the very appearance either of avarice or ambition, that your examples may be rendered worthy the imitation of the flock, and your conduct as instructive as any of your cautions and precepts can be”, Doddridge.

In other words, practice what you preach. To preach without practice is called hypocrisy.

Philippians 3:17 Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us.

I am drawn to think of the sincerity of the heart. We all know individuals who say one thing and do another. Often, words alone do not convey what is in a person’s heart. It is the action we see which shows genuineness. Consider our greatest example of humility in leadership – Jesus. He walked as a man yet was Lord of all. He did not force His Truths upon others; He lived the Truth. His example was service, yet He had all authority. Following His Father’s plan was difficult, yet Jesus submitted to God’s will. Each of us should consider the example of our actions.

If I say I am a Christian, do I live as one? Are the words I share reflected in the life I live? Telling others the way they should act is not as effective as showing others through your own life. The elders or leaders in the church were exhorted to shepherd those whom God had placed in their care. Shepherding was not a position of authority but rather a position of guidance and instruction in Truth by example. This was a high calling, and considering the period of time in which it was written, a difficult calling – one filled with trials and persecution – yet they were called to be faithful, to be humble, and to be an example. All the while looking to the glory of Heaven. This is the motivation and the promise to those who labor for Christ.

And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. The Chief Shepherd is Jesus. Those leaders who are faithful, who place themselves under Christ’s authority, who accept their role of shepherding the sheep with humility of heart and care for the lost, will be rewarded when Jesus returns. “O ye heavenly-minded, diligent, self-denying pastors after God's own heart, whether ye be in the Church established by the state, or in those divisions widely separated from, or nearly connected with it, take courage; preach Jesus; press through all difficulties in the faith of your God; fear no evil while meditating nothing but good. Ye are stars in the right hand of Jesus, who walks among your golden candlesticks, and has lighted that lamp of life which ye are appointed to trim; fear not, your labour in the Lord cannot be in vain!”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Think of the analogy used above: a lighted candlestick which requires trimming. If you do not trim the wick of a candle, it will burn furiously bright for a while but will then dim and eventually drown itself out in a pool of hot wax. To remain a continuous steady light, it needs regular trimming.

1Peter 1:3-7 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

1Corinthians 9:23-25 I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it. Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.

Notice it is an unfading crown of glory which is received. This is unlike the crowns used in that period of history for victors in public games and the conquerors of war. The crowns placed on their heads were made of leaves and flowers which would eventually fade and dry up. The Greek word used for ‘unfading’, or in the KJV, ‘that fadeth not away’, comes from the word for a flower called amaranth. Even after these flowers die, they retain their rich color. The crown of glory, also referred to as the crown of righteousness and the crown of life, is imperishable. An eternal reward awaits those who labor for Jesus.

2Timothy 4:8 in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing.

James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

“And if this be indeed your character and behaviour, you will render up your account hereafter with joy; for when he, who does you the honour to acknowledge himself the chief Shepherd of the flock, shall appear, to take the final survey of it, and examine into the conduct of those to whom he had partly committed it, you shall be most magnificently and nobly rewarded, and receive an unfading crown of glory: a crown which shall bloom in immortal beauty and vigour, when all the transitory glories of this world are withered like a fading flower”, Doddridge.

Apply It!

Pray for your Elders and Leaders that they seek to glorify God in their service.

Do you seek to make their leadership easier by trusting God for their direction or do you voice discontent regarding their leadership?

Do you serve with a cheerful heart, desiring that others are blessed? How can you grow in this area?

Are you discouraged if your service goes unrecognized? Do you need to check your motivation?

Do your words and actions reflect your love for God?

Entrusted to God; Living for Him

Think! God has entrusted you, as His child, with His Truths. This is enormous! It is the most valuable possession we can have –

In this last chapter of 1Peter, the Apostle concludes with instructions given to the elders of the church to shepherd the flock in verses 1-4. Then Peter gives specific instructions to those who are younger, and also addresses the group as a whole – encouraging them, praying for them, praising God, and reminding them to stand firm in their faith.

1Peter 5:1 Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed,

‘Therefore’ resumes the exhortation from 1Peter 4:19, Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right. Peter’s message of ‘keep on keeping on with your focus on your heavenly future’ continues. It’s as if he is saying, ‘since you have entrusted your souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right’, then here is your calling. Before we get to the specifics of what they ought to do, we’ll look at who this letter is addressed to and the words the Apostle uses to describe himself.

First, the Apostle addresses those in charge – the elders among you. Peter includes himself in this group of those he is exhorting; he refers to himself as a fellow elder. These are the individuals who care for the church – the shepherds of the flock, the teachers, pastors, elders, and deacons. They may have also been elders in age considering that Peter addresses the younger men in verse five, but this does not change the exhortation to the ministers of the church. We learn something about Peter’s humility in this verse as he includes himself in the same role as the elders of the church. He was one of the twelve disciples and a witness of Jesus’ life and death, yet he does not place himself in any position except that of serving together with those he is writing to. He also spent time with Jesus under His direct teaching but notice that the direction Peter gives to these men who lead the church is for himself also. If we are worldly thinking, then who you know gives you clout. When we are Christ-minded, each of us is equal; the need for our salvation is the same; the price paid the same; the eventual fruition of God’s grace and mercy the same. Individually we have certain roles, but each person is needed and as important as another.

To exhort in this verse means to invite, to call for, to (be of good) comfort, to desire. It seems that this is not so much a command as it is an encouragement to come alongside one another in their endeavors to lead the flock. Read this as an earnest request from the Apostle to the ministers of the church to press on.

Note, Peter describes himself as a witness of the sufferings of Christ. Imagine, walking with Christ physically, in His footsteps literally. This was Peter’s experience.

Acts 1:21-22 "Therefore it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us – beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us – one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection."

Acts 2:32 "This Jesus God raised up again, to which we are all witnesses.

The Apostle well understood the sufferings of Jesus.

Acts 3:5 but put to death the Prince of life, the one whom God raised from the dead, a fact to which we are witnesses.

Acts 10:39 "We are witnesses of all the things He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They also put Him to death by hanging Him on a cross.

“He was with Christ in the garden; he was with him when he was apprehended. and he was with him in the high priest's hall. Whether he followed him to the cross we know not; … He could, however, with the strictest propriety, say, from the above circumstances, that he was a witness of the sufferings of Christ. We are all to be a witness for Christ”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

The word witness, martus, is literal or figurative, by analogy, a martyr, someone who gives his life. A witness is also someone who can give an account or record of what they have seen or heard. Read what Jesus said to the Apostles:

Luke 24:44-48 Now He said to them, "These are My words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things which are written about Me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled." Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and He said to them, "Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. "You are witnesses of these things.

Acts 1:8 but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."

Pause for a moment and consider the Apostle who wrote this epistle. He walked with Jesus, he was friends with Jesus, shared meals with Him, and listened to His teachings. But Peter also knew what it meant to be pulled by fear, selfishness, and sin in the world. He denied the Teacher and Friend whom he loved and suffered the regret and shame of his weakness. Yet God still used him mightily. Our faithfulness may falter as we fight sin but God’s faithfulness to His children is always certain. Peter had witnessed the suffering of Jesus, he experienced His faithfulness and forgiveness, and now he was willing to suffer for Him.

Think of the conversion of the Apostle Paul. Known by the name of Saul and a great persecutor of Christians, God called him to be a witness, and his life was dramatically changed. God is faithful to His children even when they are not, His forgiveness and blessings abound. This is a good reminder to move forward in our serving and walk with God despite our failures, because He is the One holding us up, providing His strength that we might continue to glorify His name. It is also an important reminder that we should never give up on praying for those who haven’t placed their trust in Jesus. God is working in hearts even though we may not see it. There is no one He cannot save if they genuinely seek Him.

Acts 22:14-15 "And he said, 'The God of our fathers has appointed you to know His will and to see the Righteous One and to hear an utterance from His mouth. 'For you will be a witness for Him to all men of what you have seen and heard.

Consider what it means personally for you to be a witness of Jesus Christ. To speak truth from God’s word, we must endeavor to know it; if we are to witness by our life, we must seek to understand what God desires from us so that we can be obedient and faithful to His call.

Think! God has entrusted you, as His child, with His Truths. This is enormous! It is the most valuable possession we can have – to be purchased by our Savior’s blood, to be called by God, to be an heir of His promises.

Do you seek to be a faithful witness of God’s word in your speech and in your serving? If so, how – what does this look like?
Is the desire of your life to be an ambassador of the Truth? Is your answer backed by action?
When others look at your life, do they ‘see’ Jesus; do they know there is something different about you? If asked about Jesus, do you respond as a witness of who He is and what He has done?

More than once, after sharing the Gospel with someone, I have heard their response of, ‘I know I need to do this but I’m not ready’. There are examples written for us of those who were called by Jesus and immediately left what they were doing and followed Him. There is an urgency to respond to Him, tomorrow is not guaranteed. In and of ourselves we would never be ready to bow before Jesus and accept Him as our Lord and Savior. It is God’s work in us – when we respond to His call, it is His power which changes our thinking, our behavior, and all the ‘things’ in our lives that need attention.

Everything else in our lives is secondary to our walk with Jesus. We are to be striving to become increasingly like Him, to give glory to God through our testimony of His truths. Being a Christian, a follower of Christ, is not something we add to our life – it becomes our purpose for living, our mode for serving, and our focus for the future.

Today, what is your purpose? How will you serve? Where is your focus?

Along with being a witness of the sufferings of Christ, the Apostle associates himself with being a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed. He shares in the praise and worship of Christ for the hope that is promised to those who follow Him. A believer’s inheritance is Heaven!

Do you anticipate your home in Heaven where you will be in the presence of God’s glory?

I have sweet memories of spending time with my dad in the weeks before he passed away. He wanted to hear about heaven. He was not afraid of death, instead he looked forward to his future. I remember his eyes lighting up when we read the description of the holy city, Jerusalem, found in Revelation Chapter 21.

Imagine. The hope we have of heaven is absolutely certain. Those who have placed their trust in Christ alone for forgiveness of sins become heirs in God’s Kingdom. Not because we have earned it but because of His grace.

1Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

1Peter 4:13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

John 17:19-24 "For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth. "I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me. "The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me. "Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.

Romans 8:17-18 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Our purpose is to be a witness for Christ.

Our promise is Heaven.

Psalm 73:24-5 With Your counsel You will guide me, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth.

Some questions for application –

Are you willing to check your priorities? Specifically, what causes you to neglect reading your Bible and praying?

If you are in a Growth Group or Bible study, are you committed to attending and serving in your group or do you make excuses to not attend each week?

Think – when we are committed to something, we are faithful. This means if we attend a Growth Group, or Bible study, or go to church on Sunday, then we hold those commitments as a priority, not purposefully making other plans at those times, or only attending when we feel like it or when it fits into our busy schedule. If our pattern is one of being too tired or too busy to commit to fellowship and encouragement of others, this should cause us to re-think our priorities.

Do you attend church services or go to a GG or Bible Study or church event to be served or to serve?

We are encouraged when we encourage others. We can easily take for granted our ability to meet publicly, let’s remember this is an incredible blessing – one which many believers in parts of the world do not have. Lord, increase our understanding of Your blessings!

Help us to take seriously our witness of Christ; help us to live focused on our hope of Heaven.

Category: 1Peter 5

Humility, Anxiety, God’s Power and Care

Pride and Humility

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Serving for the Benefit of Others

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Entrusted to God; Living for Him

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