1 Peter 5:1

KJV

¶ The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

KJV (with Strong's)

The elders {G4245} which are among {G1722} you {G5213} I exhort {G3870}, who {G3588} am also an elder {G4850}, and {G2532} a witness {G3144} of the sufferings {G3804} of Christ {G5547}, and also {G2532} a partaker {G2844} of the glory {G1391} that shall {G3195} be revealed {G601}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore, I urge the congregation leaders among you, as a fellow-leader and witness to the Messiah’s sufferings, as well as a sharer in the glory to be revealed:

Berean Standard Bible

As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you:

American Standard Version

The elders therefore among you I exhort, who am a fellow-elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, who am also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Peter 5:1, the Apostle Peter, identifying himself not only as an apostle but also as a fellow elder, addresses the spiritual leaders within the Christian communities scattered throughout Asia Minor. He issues a heartfelt exhortation, drawing upon his unique experience as an eyewitness to Christ's profound sufferings and his confident anticipation of the future glory that will be unveiled. This verse serves as a foundational introduction to Peter's pastoral counsel for elders, emphasizing humble authority, shared experience, and an eschatological hope that grounds their service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a significant transition in Peter's epistle. Having spent the first four chapters addressing the broad Christian populace on themes of suffering, holy living, and their identity as God's chosen people (e.g., [1 Peter 2:9-10](/1_peter/2-9-10 "1 Peter 2:9-10 - A Chosen People")), Peter now shifts his focus specifically to the "elders" (πρεσβύτεροι, *presbyteroi*) within the congregations. Chapter 4 concluded with a discussion of suffering for Christ and the judgment that begins with the household of God ([1 Peter 4:17](/1_peter/4-17 "1 Peter 4:17 - Judgment Begins with God's Household")). Chapter 5, therefore, serves as a direct application of these principles to leadership, providing guidance on how those entrusted with spiritual oversight are to shepherd God's flock amidst trials and persecution, ensuring their leadership reflects Christ's character and the hope of future glory.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The recipients of Peter's letter were Christians living in various provinces of Asia Minor (Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia), a region under Roman rule. These believers were experiencing significant social pressure and, in some cases, active persecution for their faith, as indicated by themes of suffering throughout the letter (e.g., [1 Peter 1:6-7](/1_peter/1-6-7 "1 Peter 1:6-7 - Trials Refine Faith")). Within this context, the role of "elders" was crucial. Drawing from both Jewish synagogue tradition and the emerging structures of the early church, elders served as local leaders responsible for teaching, guiding, and caring for the spiritual well-being of the community. Peter's address to them as a "fellow elder" (συμπρεσβύτερος, *sympresbyteros*) would have resonated deeply, establishing a bond of solidarity and shared experience rather than a top-down command, which was particularly important in a time when Christian communities often faced external hostility and internal challenges.

* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several key themes that permeate Peter's pastoral instruction to leaders. The primary theme is **Humble and Servant Leadership**, underscored by Peter's self-identification as a "fellow elder," which immediately counters any notion of hierarchical dominance and aligns with Christ's teaching on servant leadership (e.g., [Mark 10:42-45](/mark/10-42-45 "Mark 10:42-45 - Servant Leadership")). Another crucial theme is **Apostolic Authority Grounded in Eyewitness Testimony**, as Peter leverages his unique position as a "witness of the sufferings of Christ" to lend weight to his exhortation. This personal experience of the crucifixion and resurrection forms the bedrock of his authority and the message he imparts. Finally, the verse highlights **Eschatological Hope as Motivation for Service**, with Peter reminding elders that their present faithfulness is intrinsically linked to their future participation in "the glory that shall be revealed." This future vindication and reward provide powerful encouragement for steadfastness in their demanding roles, echoing the broader emphasis on future hope found earlier in the epistle (e.g., [1 Peter 1:3-5](/1_peter/1-3-5 "1 Peter 1:3-5 - Living Hope")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **elders (Greek, _presbýteros'_):** From the comparative of an elderly person, this term signifies "older" or "senior." In the context of the early church, it evolved to denote a recognized leader, overseer, or spiritual guide within a local congregation. Peter's use of this term, especially his self-identification as "also an elder," emphasizes a shared status and responsibility, highlighting a collegial rather than a strictly hierarchical relationship between himself and the local leaders.
* **witness (Greek, _mártys'_):** This word, from which we derive "martyr," refers to someone who has seen or experienced something firsthand and can therefore give testimony about it. Peter's claim to be a "witness of the sufferings of Christ" is a powerful assertion of his unique apostolic authority, rooted in his direct observation of Jesus's passion, death, and resurrection. This personal testimony lends profound weight and credibility to his exhortations.
* **partaker (Greek, _koinōnós'_):** Derived from *koinos* (common), this term denotes a sharer, associate, or partner. Peter uses it to describe his present and future reality: he is not only a witness to Christ's past sufferings but also a present and future "partaker of the glory that shall be revealed." This signifies a deep, intimate fellowship with Christ in both His suffering and His ultimate triumph, serving as a powerful motivation and promise for all who faithfully serve.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The elders which are among you I exhort":** Peter directly addresses the spiritual leaders of the churches in Asia Minor. The term "elders" (πρεσβύτεροι) refers to those entrusted with oversight and pastoral care. Peter's choice of "exhort" (παρακαλέω, *parakaléō*) is significant; it implies a strong appeal, encouragement, and even comfort, rather than a harsh command. It reflects a pastoral heart, inviting them to embrace their responsibilities with understanding and shared purpose.
* **"who am also an elder":** Peter immediately establishes solidarity and humility. Despite his unique apostolic authority as one of the twelve, he identifies himself as a "fellow elder" (συμπρεσβύτερος, *sympresbyteros* is implied by the phrasing and Peter's typical humility). This self-designation underscores that leadership in the church is a shared calling, characterized by mutual respect and a common commitment to serving the flock. It sets a tone of collegiality for the instructions that follow.
* **"and a witness of the sufferings of Christ":** This phrase grounds Peter's exhortation in his personal, historical experience. As an apostle, Peter was an eyewitness to Jesus's life, ministry, and particularly His crucifixion and resurrection. This firsthand testimony of Christ's suffering provides an unassailable foundation for his authority and the spiritual truths he imparts. It connects the elders' present call to endure suffering with the ultimate suffering of their Lord.
* **"and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed":** Peter balances the past suffering with a future hope. He is not only a witness to Christ's historical suffering but also a "partaker" (κοινωνός) in the eschatological glory that awaits believers at Christ's return. This phrase points to the future vindication and triumph of Christ and His followers. This future hope serves as a powerful motivation for faithful service, reminding elders that their present labors and sufferings are temporary and will culminate in eternal glory.

#### Literary Devices
Peter's address in this verse masterfully employs several literary devices. The most prominent is **Ethos**, as Peter establishes his credibility and character before issuing his exhortation. He does this by identifying himself in two key ways: first, as a "fellow elder," demonstrating **Humility** and solidarity with his audience, which fosters trust and receptivity. Second, he asserts his unique **Apostolic Authority** by declaring himself a "witness of the sufferings of Christ," a direct appeal to his firsthand experience of the Gospel's central events. This personal testimony lends immense weight to his words. Furthermore, there is a powerful **Juxtaposition** between "the sufferings of Christ" (a past, historical reality) and "the glory that shall be revealed" (a future, eschatological promise). This contrast highlights the core Christian narrative of suffering preceding glory, providing both a theological framework and a motivational impetus for the elders' difficult ministry. The phrase "partaker of the glory" also functions as **Anticipation**, building expectation for the future divine revelation and the believer's role within it.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Peter 5:1 is a profound theological statement on the nature of Christian leadership, rooted in both historical reality and eschatological hope. It establishes that genuine authority in the church is not about hierarchical power but about humble service, shared experience, and a deep connection to the person and work of Christ. Peter's self-identification as a "fellow elder" underscores the New Testament emphasis on collegial leadership and mutual accountability, while his apostolic witness to Christ's suffering grounds all ministry in the Gospel's redemptive truth. The promise of future glory serves as the ultimate motivation, reminding leaders that their present labor and endurance are not in vain but are part of God's unfolding plan for His people's ultimate vindication and joy. This verse thus integrates Christology, ecclesiology, and eschatology, providing a holistic framework for pastoral ministry.

* [John 21:15-17](/john/21-15-17 "John 21:15-17 - Jesus Restores Peter and Commands Him to Feed His Sheep")
* [Acts 20:28](/acts/20-28 "Acts 20:28 - Paul's Exhortation to the Ephesian Elders")
* [Hebrews 13:17](/hebrews/13-17 "Hebrews 13:17 - Obey Your Leaders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Peter 5:1 offers timeless principles for both leaders and congregants in the church today. For those in positions of spiritual oversight, Peter's example of humility is paramount. To be a "fellow elder" means to serve alongside, to walk with the flock, and to understand their struggles, rather than to rule from a distance. True authority is earned through Christ-like character, sacrificial service, and a deep personal connection to the Gospel narrative of suffering and glory. It calls leaders to remember that their ministry is not merely administrative but deeply spiritual, rooted in the historical reality of Christ's cross and the certain hope of His return. For all believers, this verse encourages a healthy understanding of spiritual leadership: recognizing that those who lead are also pilgrims on the journey, called to shepherd with a heart that reflects Christ's own. It invites us to pray for our leaders, to support them, and to hold them accountable to the high calling of humble, Christ-centered service.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Peter's self-identification as a "fellow elder" challenge or affirm your understanding of spiritual leadership?**
* **In what ways can leaders today embody the spirit of being a "witness of the sufferings of Christ" in their ministry?**
* **How does the hope of "glory that shall be revealed" motivate you in your service or daily walk with Christ?**
* **What practical steps can both leaders and congregants take to foster a church culture characterized by humble, shared leadership?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Peter calling himself "also an elder"?**

Answer: Peter's self-identification as "also an elder" (implied by the Greek, *sympresbyteros* or "co-elder") is highly significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates profound **humility**. Despite being a chief apostle, an eyewitness to Christ's transfiguration ([2 Peter 1:16-18](/2_peter/1-16-18 "2 Peter 1:16-18 - Eyewitness to Majesty")) and resurrection, and having received a direct commission from Jesus to "feed my sheep" ([John 21:15-17](/john/21-15-17 "John 21:15-17 - Jesus Restores Peter and Commands Him to Feed His Sheep")), Peter chooses to address the local leaders as a peer. Second, it establishes **solidarity** and collegiality. He is not issuing commands from a distant, superior position but appealing to them as one who shares their calling, challenges, and responsibilities. This fosters trust and makes his exhortations more palatable and relatable. Third, it underscores the **nature of New Testament leadership** as service-oriented and shared, rather than hierarchical and domineering, aligning with Christ's teaching that the greatest among them should be a servant ([Mark 10:42-45](/mark/10-42-45 "Mark 10:42-45 - Servant Leadership")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Peter 5:1, though an exhortation to human leaders, is profoundly Christ-centered, for it is Christ Himself who defines the very essence of true leadership and the hope that sustains it. Peter's authority to exhort the elders flows directly from his unique relationship with Christ as a "witness of the sufferings of Christ." This points to Jesus as the ultimate suffering servant, whose voluntary sacrifice on the cross ([Isaiah 53:3-5](/isaiah/53-3-5 "Isaiah 53:3-5 - The Suffering Servant")) is the foundation of our salvation and the pattern for all Christian service. Peter's own call to shepherd ([John 21:15-17](/john/21-15-17 "John 21:15-17 - Jesus Restores Peter and Commands Him to Feed His Sheep")) came from the resurrected Christ, making him a living embodiment of the Gospel. Furthermore, Peter's identity as a "partaker of the glory that shall be revealed" highlights Christ as the Lord of glory, whose future return will bring about the full manifestation of God's kingdom and the vindication of His faithful. The glory Peter anticipates is the glory of Christ, which believers will share in, as promised in passages like [Colossians 3:4](/colossians/3-4 "Colossians 3:4 - Christ Our Life, Our Glory"). Thus, the elders are called to shepherd the flock in light of Christ's past suffering and His future glory, mirroring the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")) and will return to gather them into eternal glory.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Colossians 3:3

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

Colossians 3:4

When Christ, [who is] our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

Luke 24:48

And ye are witnesses of these things.

Romans 8:17

¶ And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with [him], that we may be also glorified together.

Romans 8:18

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Revelation 1:9

¶ I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 5:4

And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.