Explore the Bible By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
ALERT LIVING
1 Peter 5:1–11
Responsible Shepherds (1–4)
Peter encourages the elders because as leaders of the church they may face the brunt of the persecution first. The term “elders” is used interchangeably with pastors and overseers in the New Testament. Every piece of evidence we have shows that elders were widespread in the early church. Luke, Paul, Peter and James all mention elders. It also is likely that elders functioned as a plurality in the churches since the term is always plural.
Peter identified himself as a “fellow elder,” a “witness of the sufferings of Christ” and as a “partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed.” The reference to Christ’s suffering is obviously intentional, for as the epistle has made clear, suffering is the pathway to glory. Jesus Christ Himself traveled the same road, and Jesus’ followers should not be surprised they are called to do the same. “The glory that is going to be revealed” refers to the Second Coming. Peter endures present suffering because he knows better days are coming when Christ returns.
Elders (pastors) are entrusted with the responsibility to “shepherd the flock.” To shepherd the flock means to tend to the sheep. The shepherd is to guard, guide and provide for the sheep. Elders also are entrusted with “exercising oversight,” which is the verb form of the noun “overseer,” which is another title for those who serve as elders. The terms “shepherd” and “exercising oversight” emphasize the function of elders, while the title “elder” focuses on the office.
Peter gave three exhortations to elders as to how they were to carry out their responsibilities. Elders were to shepherd the church gladly or willingly, in accord with God’s will, instead of doing it out of a sense of compulsion. They were to do the work eagerly and not out of greed or for shameful gain. They were to serve as examples to the congregation and not use their place of leadership as a means to be domineering. The chief Shepherd is Jesus Christ. When He returns He will reward with glory every pastor who has served faithfully.
Trusting Sheep (5–7)
“You who are younger” probably refers to younger members of the congregation, who are more likely to act rebelliously. They are to submit themselves to the leadership of the elders. All members of the congregation, the young and everyone else, need to relate with humility toward one another. Peter cited Proverbs 3:34 to remind the readers that God is against the proud but will pour out His favor upon the humble.
Jesus’ followers are to humble themselves and trust God even in the suffering. All suffering we encounter in this life is only for a season. This truth does not lessen the pain now, but it does remind us that one day “the mighty hand of God” will bring it to a close. And while we suffer in this Genesis 3 world, we practice humility by casting our worries on God. When believers throw their worries upon God, they express their trust in His mighty hand, acknowledging that He is Lord and Sovereign over all of life.
The Need for Alertness (8–11)
Christians need to be spiritually vigilant, watching for attacks from the devil. Peter used graphic language describing Satan as a lion. He prowls around seeking someone to devour, hoping that believers will be terrified in their suffering, or that they will be deceived and fall into sin. Though the devil may threaten to devour Christians, they have the assurance they will be guarded by God’s power (1 Pet. 1:5).
Resist Satan. Stand firm in the faith by trusting in the God of grace. God, who called you by His grace, will strengthen you with His grace.
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