1 Peter 5:4

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} when the chief Shepherd {G750} shall appear {G5319}, ye shall receive {G2865} a crown {G4735} of glory {G1391} that fadeth not away {G262}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then, when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive glory as your unfading crown.

Berean Standard Bible

And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Offers a profound promise of eternal, imperishable reward for those who faithfully shepherd God's flock, assuring them that when the Lord Jesus Christ, the ultimate "Chief Shepherd," appears, their diligent and selfless service will be honored with an unfading crown of glory, a testament to their enduring faithfulness and a stark contrast to the fleeting accolades of this world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culmination of Peter's direct exhortation to the elders (πρεσβυτέρους, *presbyterous*) of the church, which begins in [1 Peter 5:1](/1_peter/5-1 "1 Peter 5:1 - Exhortation to Elders"). Peter, identifying himself as a "fellow elder" and a witness of Christ's sufferings, urges them to "shepherd the flock of God that is among you" ([1 Peter 5:2](/1_peter/5-2 "1 Peter 5:2 - Shepherd the Flock")), emphasizing the manner of their leadership: not under compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly, and not as domineering over those entrusted to them but by being examples to the flock ([1 Peter 5:2-3](/1_peter/5-2-3 "1 Peter 5:2-3 - Qualities of Shepherding")). The promise of an "unfading crown of glory" in [1 Peter 5:4](/1_peter/5-4 "1 Peter 5:4 - The Chief Shepherd's Reward") provides the ultimate motivation and eternal perspective for such sacrificial and humble ministry, transcending any immediate difficulties or earthly recognition.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter is writing to scattered believers in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), who are facing various forms of persecution and suffering ([1 Peter 1:6-7](/1_peter/1-6-7 "1 Peter 1:6-7 - Trials and Faith"), [1 Peter 4:12-19](/1_peter/4-12-19 "1 Peter 4:12-19 - Suffering for Christ")). In this context, the role of elders was crucial for providing spiritual stability, guidance, and encouragement. The concept of a "crown" (στέφανος, *stéphanos*) would have resonated deeply with his original audience, who were familiar with the Greco-Roman athletic games where victors received a perishable wreath or garland as a prize. This imagery would immediately evoke ideas of achievement, honor, and public recognition, making the contrast with an "unfading" crown particularly powerful. The "Chief Shepherd" imagery draws from both Old Testament concepts of God as Israel's Shepherd ([Psalm 23](/psalms/23 "Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd")) and Jesus's self-identification as the Good Shepherd ([John 10:11-16](/john/10-11-16 "John 10:11-16 - Jesus the Good Shepherd")).

* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes in [1 Peter](/1_peter/1 "The First Epistle of Peter") include suffering and hope, the nature of Christian identity (as exiles and sojourners), and practical exhortations for holy living. Within this, [1 Peter 5](/1_peter/5 "1 Peter 5 - Exhortations and Benediction") specifically highlights themes of **spiritual leadership** and **humility**. The "Chief Shepherd" theme emphasizes Christ's supreme authority over His church and the accountability of all earthly leaders to Him, reinforcing the idea that all ministry is ultimately service to Christ. The promise of the "crown of glory" underscores the theme of **divine reward** for faithful endurance and selfless service, particularly in the face of adversity. This reward is presented as **eternal and imperishable**, contrasting sharply with the transient nature of earthly life and its fleeting honors, a concept also found in Peter's earlier discussion of an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Chief Shepherd (Greek, _archipoímēn'_):** This compound word, unique to this verse in the New Testament, combines *archē* (rule, beginning, chief) and *poimēn* (shepherd). It designates Jesus Christ as the supreme, ultimate, and authoritative Shepherd of the church. While earthly elders are shepherds, they serve under His direct oversight and authority. This title underscores His preeminence and the accountability of all who serve in leadership roles within His flock.
* **shall appear (Greek, _phaneróō'_):** Derived from *phanerós* (visible, apparent), this verb means "to make manifest," "to render apparent," or "to show oneself." In this context, it refers to the visible, glorious return (Parousia) of Jesus Christ. It implies a future event when Christ's true nature and authority will be fully revealed, and at that time, He will assess and reward the faithful service of His undershepherds.
* **that fadeth not away (Greek, _amarántinos'_):** This adjective, meaning "amaranthine" or "fadeless," is a powerful descriptor of the crown. It is derived from *amárantos*, a mythical flower believed never to wither or fade. This term emphatically conveys the imperishable, incorruptible, and eternal nature of the glory and reward that awaits the faithful servant, standing in sharp contrast to the temporary, decaying nature of earthly honors and possessions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when the chief Shepherd shall appear":** This clause sets the timing and the agent of the promised reward. The "chief Shepherd" is unequivocally Jesus Christ, establishing His ultimate authority over all earthly ministry. His "appearing" refers to His second coming, a future eschatological event that serves as the ultimate horizon for Christian hope and motivation for faithful service. This highlights that the reward is not immediate or earthly, but tied to Christ's glorious return.
* **"ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away":** This clause specifies the nature of the reward. "Ye" refers primarily to the elders Peter has been addressing, but by extension, to all faithful servants of Christ. "Receive" implies a gracious bestowal by the Chief Shepherd. The "crown" (στέφανος, *stéphanos*) is a victor's wreath, symbolizing honor, triumph, and recognition for faithful endurance, rather than a royal diadem. It is a "crown of glory," indicating that the reward itself is glorious and reflects the glory of God. Crucially, it is "that fadeth not away," emphasizing its eternal, imperishable, and incorruptible nature, distinguishing it from all earthly accolades.

#### Literary Devices
Peter effectively employs **Metaphor** and **Symbolism** throughout this verse. The most prominent metaphor is that of Christ as the "**Chief Shepherd**," extending the imagery of earthly elders as undershepherds of God's flock. This metaphor emphasizes Christ's loving care, ultimate authority, and the accountability of those who serve under Him. The "**crown of glory**" is a powerful symbol. It is not merely a literal crown but symbolizes divine honor, recognition, and eternal reward for faithful service. Its description as "**that fadeth not away**" introduces a strong **Contrast** with the perishable nature of earthly rewards (like the athletic wreaths of Peter's day), underscoring the enduring and eternal quality of God's blessing. This contrast serves to elevate the spiritual and eternal above the temporal and fleeting.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully connects the themes of faithful service, divine sovereignty, and eschatological hope. It underscores the biblical principle that God observes and rewards the sincere and humble labor of His people, especially those entrusted with spiritual leadership. The "Chief Shepherd" motif reinforces Christ's ultimate headship over the church and the accountability of all undershepherds to Him. The promise of an "unfading crown of glory" speaks to the eternal nature of God's kingdom and the imperishable quality of the rewards found therein, contrasting sharply with the transient nature of all earthly achievements and accolades. It motivates believers to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing God's glory and the well-being of His flock over personal gain or temporary recognition.

* [1 Corinthians 9:25](/1_corinthians/9-25 "An Imperishable Crown")
* [2 Timothy 4:8](/2_timothy/4-8 "Crown of Righteousness")
* [James 1:12](/james/1-12 "Crown of Life")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For those in spiritual leadership, [1 Peter 5:4](/1_peter/5-4 "1 Peter 5:4 - The Chief Shepherd's Reward") serves as both a profound encouragement and a sober reminder of accountability. It calls leaders to shepherd God's flock with integrity, humility, and genuine love, not for personal gain or human applause, but with an eye toward the ultimate recognition from the Chief Shepherd Himself. This promise empowers them to persevere through challenges, criticism, and discouragement, knowing that their true reward is not found in earthly accolades but in the eternal glory bestowed by Christ upon His appearing. For all believers, this verse broadens our understanding of faithful service. It reminds us that every act of obedience, every sacrifice made for the sake of the gospel, and every humble contribution to the body of Christ, is seen and valued by our Lord. It shifts our focus from the perishable rewards of this world to the imperishable inheritance and unfading glory that await those who live in dedication to Christ, inspiring us to live with an eternal perspective and to invest our lives in what truly lasts.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of an "unfading crown of glory" motivate your service to God and others, particularly when faced with challenges or lack of recognition?**
* **In what ways might you be tempted to seek "fading" earthly crowns, and how can focusing on the "Chief Shepherd's" appearing reorient your desires?**
* **If you are in a leadership role, how does the concept of being an "undershepherd" accountable to the "Chief Shepherd" shape your approach to ministry and care for God's flock?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Jesus being called the "Chief Shepherd"?**

Answer: The title "Chief Shepherd" (ἀρχιποίμην, *archipoímēn*) is highly significant as it emphasizes Jesus Christ's supreme and ultimate authority over His church. While human leaders (elders, pastors) are called to "shepherd the flock of God" ([1 Peter 5:2](/1_peter/5-2 "1 Peter 5:2 - Shepherd the Flock")), they do so as undershepherds, serving under Christ's direct oversight. This title highlights His preeminence, His loving care for His sheep, and the accountability of all who serve in leadership roles to Him. He is the one who owns the flock, guides it, protects it, and will ultimately reward those who faithfully serve it.

**What does "a crown of glory that fadeth not away" symbolize?**

Answer: This phrase symbolizes an eternal, imperishable, and incorruptible reward given by Jesus Christ for faithful service. The "crown" (στέφανος, *stéphanos*) refers to a victor's wreath, like those given to athletes in ancient games, signifying triumph, honor, and recognition for achievement and endurance. It is a "crown of glory" because it reflects God's own radiant glory and is bestowed by the glorious Chief Shepherd. The crucial phrase "that fadeth not away" (ἀμαράντινος, *amarántinos*) emphasizes its everlasting nature, contrasting sharply with earthly honors, which are temporary and decay. It signifies a reward that is permanent, secure, and eternally satisfying.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Peter 5:4](/1_peter/5-4 "1 Peter 5:4 - The Chief Shepherd's Reward") finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is explicitly identified as the "Chief Shepherd." This title resonates deeply with His own self-identification as the "Good Shepherd" who lays down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus the Good Shepherd")) and who knows His sheep and is known by them ([John 10:14](/john/10-14 "John 10:14 - Jesus Knows His Sheep")). He is the one who gathers the scattered flock, guides them through the wilderness of this world, and protects them from spiritual dangers. The promise of the "unfading crown of glory" is entirely dependent on His future "appearing," which refers to His glorious Second Coming, when He will return not as a suffering servant but as the triumphant King and Judge ([Revelation 1:7](/revelation/1-7 "Revelation 1:7 - Christ's Return")). It is from His hand that all faithful service will receive its just and eternal reward, a reward made possible only through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection. Thus, the hope of this imperishable crown is intrinsically linked to Christ's finished work on the cross and His future reign, demonstrating that all true glory and reward flow from Him, the source and sustainer of our faith and service ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, Author and Finisher of Our Faith")).

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

James 1:12

Blessed [is] the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

1 Corinthians 9:25

And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

1 John 3:2

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

2 Timothy 4:8

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

1 Peter 1:4

To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

Isaiah 40:11

He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with young.

1 Peter 2:25

For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.