1 Peter 5:1

¶ 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:

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}:

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:

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:

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

Commentary on 1 Peter 5:1 (KJV)

In 1 Peter 5:1, the Apostle Peter shifts his focus to directly address the leaders within the early Christian communities, setting the stage for his exhortations regarding their pastoral duties. This verse is crucial for understanding the nature of leadership in the New Testament church and Peter's humble approach to his own apostolic authority.

Context

This verse marks a transition in Peter’s epistle. Having previously exhorted all believers on how to live godly lives amidst suffering and persecution, he now turns his attention specifically to the "elders" (presbyteroi in Greek). This term refers to mature, experienced leaders who served as overseers and shepherds of the local congregations. Peter speaks not from a position of detached authority, but as a fellow elder, demonstrating humility and solidarity with those he addresses. His personal credentials—being a witness to Christ's suffering and a future partaker of glory—lend significant weight to his upcoming counsel.

Key Themes

  • Humble Leadership: Peter's self-identification as "also an elder" highlights a crucial aspect of Christian leadership: it is about serving alongside, not ruling over. This sets a tone of shared responsibility and mutual respect between leaders and the flock.
  • Apostolic Authority and Witness: Peter emphasizes his unique qualification as a direct witness of the sufferings of Christ. This personal experience of Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection provides an unshakeable foundation for his exhortations, linking the leaders' present call to the very heart of the Gospel message.
  • Future Hope and Motivation: The phrase "partaker of the glory that shall be revealed" points to the eschatological hope that undergirds Christian life and service. Peter reminds elders that their present faithfulness, even in suffering, is intrinsically linked to the future vindication and glory awaiting believers at Christ's return. This future hope serves as a powerful motivation for steadfast leadership.
  • The Nature of Exhortation: The word "exhort" (Greek: parakalō) implies a strong appeal, encouragement, or even comfort, rather than a harsh command. Peter appeals to his fellow elders with warmth and understanding, recognizing the challenges they face.

Linguistic Insights

The term "elder" (Greek: presbyteros) literally means "older one" or "senior." In the early church, it came to signify a recognized leader or overseer. This term is often used interchangeably with "bishop" (episkopos) and "pastor" (poimēn, shepherd), indicating a multi-faceted role of spiritual oversight, teaching, and care for the congregation. Peter's use of "exhort" (parakalō) conveys a sense of earnest appeal and encouragement, reflecting his pastoral heart.

Practical Application

For today's church leaders, 1 Peter 5:1 serves as a foundational reminder of the calling to humble, servant leadership. It underscores that true authority comes not from position alone, but from a genuine experience of Christ's suffering and a confident hope in His future glory. Leaders are encouraged to view themselves as fellow pilgrims with their congregations, sharing in both the challenges and the ultimate triumph. For all believers, this verse highlights the importance of respecting and praying for spiritual leaders who serve with a heart like Peter's, rooted in Christ's finished work and promised return.

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Cross-References

  • Colossians 3:3 (8 votes)

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

  • Colossians 3:4 (8 votes)

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

  • Luke 24:48 (8 votes)

    And ye are witnesses of these things.

  • Romans 8:17 (7 votes)

    ¶ 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 (7 votes)

    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 (5 votes)

    ¶ 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 (5 votes)

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