1 Peter Chapter 5
1 Peter 5:1 TPT Now, I encourage you as an elder, an eyewitness of the sufferings of Christ, and one who shares in the glory that is about to be unveiled. I urge my fellow elders among you
Guzik: The elders who are among you I exhort: Peter will give a word of exhortation to the elders who are among the Christians reading this letter. These elders have special responsibilities that Peter will address.
i. The idea of the elder came into church life from Jewish culture (Exo_3:16; Exo_12:21; Exo_19:7). The word “elder” simply speaks of the maturity and wisdom that an older person should have, making them qualified for leadership. In its application, it is more about wisdom and maturity than age.
ii. It was the practice of Paul and Barnabas to appoint elders in the churches they had founded (Act_14:23). There was also the development of the office of pastor, who was essentially a teaching elder (1Ti_5:17) who appointed and guided elders and other leaders (1Ti_3:1-13, 2Ti_2:2, Tit_1:5-9).
b. I who am a fellow elder: Peter is qualified to speak because he is a fellow elder. Though Peter was clearly the prominent disciple among the twelve, he claims no special privilege or position, such as the “Pope” of the early church. Instead, Peter sees himself only as one fellow elder among all the elders in the church.
c. A witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: Peter is qualified to speak because he is a witness of Jesus’ sufferings, when he saw Jesus’ torture and crucifixion, and he was a partaker of Jesus’ glory, probably when he saw Jesus’ transfiguration.
i. Peter wrote about suffering and glory in the Christian life (1Pe_4:12-13). Because Peter saw both suffering and glory in the life of Jesus, he can speak with the authority of an eyewitness.
Russell: The elders -- The Apostle has been addressing the elders of the Church, exhorting them to give attention to the feeding of God's flock and pointing out what should be the constraining influence to such a service. They should be examples in the matter of meekness, and courtesy, so that as the brethren would copy these elders the spirit of the Lord would prevail. The Apostle distinctly points out that a servant is not a ruler, that a servant has no authority.
The Lord does not raise up rulers from among our brethren in the Body of Christ, but he does raise up faithful leaders, to whom earnest heed should be given, and whose faith and example should be imitated.
1 Peter 5:2 TPT to be compassionate shepherds who tenderly care for God’s flock and who feed them well, for you have the responsibility to guide, protect, and oversee. Consider it a joyous pleasure and not merely a religious duty. Lead from the heart under God’s leadership—not as a way to gain finances dishonestly but as a way to eagerly and cheerfully serve.
Guzik: They must shepherd the flock of God. Peter seems to be remembering Jesus’ three-part commission to him in Joh_21:15-17. In that passage, Jesus told Peter to show his love for Jesus by feeding and tending Jesus’ sheep.
i. How does a spiritual shepherd do his job? The first job is to feed the sheep. Jesus emphasized this to Peter in Joh_21:15-17. Another aspect of the job is to tend the sheep, which means protecting, guiding, nurturing, and caring for the sheep.
ii. The most important “tool” to shepherd the flock of God is a heart like Jesus’, that is willing to give one’s life for the sheep, and who genuinely cares about and is interested in them (Joh_10:11-14).
b. Serving as overseers: For Peter, the job of being a shepherd can also be understood as being an overseer. This word for leadership comes to the church from Greek culture, and it means someone who watches over, a manager, or a supervisor (Act_20:28, 1Ti_3:1-2, Tit_1:7).
c. Not by compulsion but willingly: Shepherds should not do their job by compulsion, as if they were being forced into a task they really hated. Instead, they should serve God and His people willingly, from a heart that loves sheep and wants to serve.
i. “None of God’s soldiers are mercenaries or pressed men: they are all volunteers. We must have a shepherd’s heart if we would do a shepherd’s work.” (Meyer)
d. Not for dishonest gain but eagerly: Shepherds should not do their job for dishonest gain. The gain is dishonest because it was their motive for serving as shepherds. Instead, they should serve eagerly, willing to serve apart from financial compensation.
Benson: Feed the flock of God — Both by doctrine and discipline; which is among you — Namely, the churches of Christ, which you are called to preside over;
taking the oversight thereof — Greek, επισκοπουντες, discharging the episcopal office. By this it appears that those who are styled bishops, from their having the oversight of others, and also presbyters, or elders, are spoken of as the same persons.
Not by constraint — Unwillingly, as if it were a burden; but willingly — “In the first age, when the profession of the gospel exposed men to persecution, and when the persecutions fell more especially on the bishops, it may easily be imagined that some who were appointed to that office would undertake it unwillingly; not only because they were not disposed to do the duties thereof diligently, but because they were not willing to suffer.”
Not for filthy lucre — Which, if it be the motive of acting, is filthy beyond expression. The apostle means also, not for a maintenance; for the sake of which merely, or chiefly, no one should undertake the pastoral office. They that preach the gospel may live by the gospel, but no one ought to engage in such a work merely that he may live by it. “O consider this, ye that leave one flock and go to another, merely ‘because there is more gain, a larger salary!’ Is it not astonishing that men ‘can see no harm in this?’ That it is not only practised, but avowed, all over the nation?” — Wesley.
But of a ready mind — With a sincere desire to glorify God…. In the Syriac version, the word προθυμως, here used, is translated toto corde, with the whole heart. Dr. Benson’s observation on this verse is, “How severely are they here condemned, who feed themselves and not the flock; who take the patrimony of the church, and commit the care of souls to others, to whom they allow a very small share of that plenty which they have for doing little.”
Russell: Feed the flock -- With meat in due season; avoiding teachers that have ears that itch for popularity and flattery. The lambs and sheep make one flock, and there is but one Shepherd, who superintends and cares for all. The elders are not commissioned to shear, frighten nor club the sheep.
Of God -- Not, your flock, your people, your church, as many ministers today speak.
"My sheep know my voice." (Joh_10:27)
Taking the oversight -- To feed them with the truth, to guard them against the wolves in sheep's clothing, and in a general way, to act as their representatives.
But willingly -- Willing to assume the labors and responsibilities of the service.
Not for filthy lucre -- In the early Church the elders served weekly meetings without thought of compensation; probably continuing their usual work or business for a livelihood.
There are noble and ignoble ambitions.
Of a ready mind -- With a desire to serve the Lord and the brethren.
Do your teachers fit this description?
Do your ministers live sumptuously off the congregation?
Do they love and feed the flock? Or is it just a job?
1 Peter 5:3 (Williams) and not as domineering over those in your charge but proving yourselves models for the flock to imitate;
Guzik: Nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock: Shepherds should not do their job as lords, because the sheep do not belong to them. The sheep are entrusted to them. Instead, shepherds are to serve by being examples, not dictators.
i. Nor as being lords shows that in the mind of Peter, shepherds had significant authority in the early church. If the office of shepherd was so powerless that a shepherd didn’t rule and lead, then there was little potential for being lords. But because Peter gives this warning, it shows there was the potential for lording over.
ii. The sobering fact is that pastors are examples to the flock, whether they intend to be or not. It is interesting to see how a congregation takes on the personality of its pastor in good ways and bad ways.
Russell: As being lords -- Ecclesiastical potentates, Doctors of divinity, etc. Assuming to be lords.
Attempting to take the place of the Lord and acting arrogantly toward the brethren. The elders should remember that they are not the Chief Shepherd, but only the under-shepherds. If any should lord it over the flock, he would bring injury to himself as well as to the Church; he would be cultivating a spirit of pride.
The spirit of ambition, rivalry, and desire to be greatest amongst the Lord's people is one of the most dangerous foes of the Church, not only to those over whom they rule, but also to those who will be rulers and teachers.
Beginning before 325 AD, this doctrine had been growing; the bishops began to manifest the attitude that they were higher than the common people, that they were the church and the common people the laity.
Over God's heritage -- The Church.
Being ensamples -- Patterns of humility, faithfulness, zeal and godliness.
Are your Pastor’s the boss?
Do you have to ask their permission on personal decisions?
1 Peter 5:4 TPT And when the Shepherd-King appears, you will win the victor’s crown of glory that never fades away.
Guzik: The reward for leaders in the church.
When the Chief Shepherd appears: Peter reminds shepherds in the church that they will answer one day to their Chief Shepherd, who will want to know what they did with His flock!
i. It is important for shepherds - pastors - to realize that they lead Jesus’ sheep. He is the Shepherd, He is the Overseer (1Pe_2:25). In this sense, the Christian shepherd doesn’t work for the sheep, he works for the Chief Shepherd.
b. You will receive a crown of glory: Faithful shepherds are promised a crown of glory, but not like the crown of leaves given to ancient Olympic champions. This crown will not fade away.
Crowns are not only for shepherds, but for everyone who was faithful to Jesus and who did what He called them to do (1Co_9:25, 2Ti_4:8, Jas_1:12).
Benson: shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away — A crown which shall bloom in immortal beauty and vigour, when all the transitory glories of this world are withered, like a fading flower. In the original expression, αμαραντινον, amaranthine, there is an allusion to the crowns of green leaves and herbs bestowed by the ancients as the rewards of military prowess, or of victory in the games. These, together with the honours of which they were the symbols, soon faded away; but the crown of glory, the reward to be given to faithful shepherds, will never fade, being a crown of righteousness, 2Ti_4:8, and a crown of life, Jas_1:12.
Russell: The chief Shepherd -- The Lord established but one Church, and over that one Church he himself is the only "Lord" and "Head," the only authority.
A crown of glory -- Immortality, the divine nature. This crown that is reserved for us is conditional.
"To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne." (Rev_3:21)
Fadeth not away -- The Lord will give to his overcoming Bride the crown of life "that fadeth not away." (1Pe_1:4)
Are you eager for that day?
1 Peter 5:5 TPT In the same way, the younger ones should willingly support the leadership of the elders. In every relationship, each of you must wrap around yourself the apron of a humble servant. Because: God resists you when you are proud but multiplies grace and favor when you are humble.
Guzik: Likewise you younger people: Peter begins this word of humility to you younger people, in contrast to the elders he has just addressed. But he soon realizes that it is of application to all of you. This word to be submissive to one another and be clothed with humility applies to everyone, but perhaps especially to the young.
b. Clothed with humility: Humility is demonstrated by submission. It is the ability to cheerfully put away our own agenda for God’s, even if God’s agenda is expressed through another person.
c. Be clothed with humility: “Be clothed” translates a rare word that refers to a slave putting on an apron before serving, even as Jesus did before washing the disciple’s feet (Joh_13:4).
d. For “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Humility is essential to our relationship with God. If we want to walk in God’s grace (His unmerited favor) then we must lay aside our pride and be humble - not only to Him but also to one another.
i. Grace and pride are eternal enemies. Pride demands that God bless me in light of what I think I deserve. Grace will only deal with me on the basis what is in God (love), not on the basis of anything in me.
i. “Pride is one of the most detestable of sins; yet does it find lodgment in earnest souls, though we often speak of it by some lighter name. We call it - independence, self-reliance. We do not always discern it in the hurt feeling, which retires into itself, and nurses its sorrows in a sulk . . . We are proud of our humility, vain of our meekness; and, putting on the saintliest look, we wonder whether all around are not admiring us for our lowliness.” (Meyer)
Meyer: The younger men may include the deacons, but the all, 1Pe_5:5, refers to the entire membership. They were to gird on humility, as a slave his towel, that they might serve one another, Joh_13:4. Those who humble themselves in the profoundest loyalty toward God stand as rocks before their fellows. Remember Luther’s-“Here I stand, I can do no other.” You cannot say, “Nobody cares what becomes of me.” God cares, and with an infinite tenderness. He cared before you cast your care on Him! God is linked to your little life by His tender regard and care for you.
Russell: Submit yourselves -- We are cautioned not to defy the elders, nor to blindly and worshipfully follow them without proving their teachings by the Word of God.
Subject one to another -- We are to be subject to the Lord and every ordinance of God; and to consider the truly consecrated people of God as a unit and to seek to cooperate one with another.
In humility and meekness, we are to harmoniously cooperate together as one body for upbuilding in love and all the Christian graces, and for the general advancement of the work of the Lord.
All are so anxious to serve and so independent in their feelings that it sometimes means as many different plans and arrangements as there are members in the congregation; patience, forbearance and love are qualities greatly needed.
Clothed with humility --Humility is one of the basic principles of a properly crystalized character. "Gird yourself with humility, to serve one another." (Revised Version) The humble spirit seeketh not its own, is not puffed up, does not attempt to speculate upon inflated values, does not think of itself more highly than it ought to think, but thinks soberly--neither overrating, nor underrating its own acquirements or achievements. Outside of every other adornment of character, and covering all others, should be this robe of humble-mindedness, the opposite disposition to pride.
God resisteth -- Because the Almighty sees that we have nothing whatever of which to be proud or to boast. Whatever we have has been of the Lord's providence, or favoring circumstances. He disapproves of pride; all who are actuated by pride may be sure that the Lord will resist them, push them from him.
The proud -- The self-sufficient, the boastful. Pride is selfishness gone to seed. Nothing is more dangerous to the child of God than self-conceit; it blocks the way to true progress and reformation of heart, and hinders true usefulness to others, and especially usefulness in God's service.
Pride is the one thing that God hates.
Giveth -- Showeth.
Grace -- Favor.
To the humble -- Only the humble will share with the Lord in the inheritance of the Kingdom. It is when we are thus humble and faithful that the Lord makes us his chosen vessels to bear his name to others.
Are you keeping your pride in check?
1 Peter 5:6 TPT If you bow low in God’s awesome presence, he will eventually exalt you as you leave the timing in his hands.
Guzik: That He may exalt you in due time: If God has us in a humble place at the present time, we must submit to God’s plan. He knows the due time to exalt us, though we often think we know that time better than God does.
Russell: Humble yourselves -- As "little children." (Mat_18:3) Some brethren seem not to have learned the lesson of "God first, self last." One of the most important qualities for any of God's people to possess. God will especially bless those who are more lowly, meek, teachable, more trustful in the Lord. Avoid the spirit of ambition, rivalry, and the desire to be greatest amongst the Lord's people.
The tests of the present time are tests of faith and loyalty to God, and of entire submission to his will. Without these we would be quite unfit for the Kingdom. This test comes to the Lord and the Church only during the Gospel age.
Peter evidently had spiritual pride in mind when he wrote to the Church regarding humility. Humility is a very prominent grace in the sight of God. It comes right in as you find your weaknesses; humble yourselves and make it right with God
He may exalt you -- With ultimate victory and life everlasting. To be the Bride, the Lamb's wife; joint-heirs with Jesus Christ our Lord. The way of the cross, the way of humiliation and self-abasement, is the way to the crown, to that true honor that cometh from God only.
"He that humbleth himself shall be exalted." (Luk_14:11
"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and he shall lift you up." (Jam_4:10)
In due time -- After that ye have suffered a while; after He shall have made you ready for the exaltation and for the service He wishes you to perform.
Are you humbling yourself under God?
1 Peter 5:7 TPT Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you.
Guzik: True humility is shown by our ability to cast our care upon God. It is proud presumption to take things into our own worry and care about things that God has promised to take care of (Mat_5:31-34).
i. Sometimes we need to call worry and inappropriate care exactly what it is: pride and unbelief, and a desire to usurp God’s place as our providing, caring Father.
ii. He cares for you: At their best moments, the religions of Greek culture could imagine a God who was good. Yet they never came to the place where they believed in a God who cared. The God of the Bible - the God who is really there - is a God who cares for you.
We often judge the parents by the children. When a child of God is full of worry and fear, doesn’t the world have reason to believe that their Father in heaven doesn’t care for them? Our worry and fear reflects poorly - in an unfair way - upon God.
Russell: Casting all your care -- Anxiety, worry, trouble of mind. Worries and frettings; anxieties that would hinder us in the 6Lord's service, that would rob us of our peace in the Lord, should be dropped, not carelessly, however, but intelligently.
We cannot be faithful children of God if we are full of worry. Worry is one thing, but proper carefulness is another. We need carry no anxious cares respecting the future.
Let us tell the Lord all about our burdens, great and small.A little carelessness along these lines, and the Adversary might readily entrap us and ensnare us and then lead us captive at his will. This power of intrusion will contain we believe, evil suggestions, promoting slanders and back-biting.
Upon him -- The Shepherd of the flock.
He careth for you -- Each day that a Christian lives he should be more reliant upon the Lord.
"My God shall supply all your need." (Phi_4:19) R3400:4
Illustrated by the feeding of Elijah by the ravens. God did not supply Elijah with luxuries but with the absolute necessities.
What do you worry about?
How do you overcome your worries?
1 Peter 5:8 TPT Be well balanced and always alert, because your enemy, the devil, roams around incessantly, like a roaring lion looking for its prey to devour.
Guzik: Your adversary the devil walks about: We must remain clear-headed (sober) and watchful (vigilant), because Satan has not yet been bound and restrained for 1,000 years as Rev_20:1-2 says he will be. At the present time, the devil walks about.
Barnes: Be sober - While you cast your cares Upon God, and have no anxiety on that score, let your solicitude be directed to another point. Do not doubt that he is able and willing to support and befriend you, but be watchful against your foes. See the word used here fully explained in the notes at 1Th_5:6.
Be vigilant - This word (γρηγορέω grēgoreō) is everywhere else in the New Testament rendered “watch.” See Mat_24:42-43; Mat_25:13; Mat_26:38, Mat_26:40-41. It means that we should exercise careful circumspection, as one does when he is in danger. In reference to the matter here referred to, it means that we are to be on our guard against the wiles and the power of the evil one.
Your adversary the devil - Your enemy; he who is opposed to you. Satan opposes man in his best interests. He resists his efforts to do good; his purposes to return to God; his attempts to secure his own salvation. There is no more appropriate appellation that can be given to him than to say that he resists all our efforts to obey God and to secure the salvation of our own souls.
As a roaring lion - Compare Rev_12:12. Sometimes Satan is represented as transforming himself into an angel of light, (see the notes at 2Co_11:14); and sometimes, as here, as a roaring lion: denoting the efforts which he makes to alarm and overpower us. The lion here is not the crouching lion - the lion stealthfully creeping toward his foe - but it is the raging monarch of the woods, who by his terrible roar would intimidate all so that they might become an easy prey. The particular thing referred to here, doubtless, is persecution, resembling in its terrors a roaring lion. When error comes in; when seductive arts abound; when the world allures and charms the representation of the character of the foe is not of the roaring lion, but of the silent influence of an enemy that has clothed himself in the garb of an angel of light, 2Co_11:14.
Walketh about, seeking whom he may devour - “Naturalists have observed that a lion roars when he is roused with hunger, for then he is most fierce, and most eagerly seeks his prey. See Jdg_14:5; Psa_22:13; Jer_2:15; Eze_22:25; Hos_11:10; Zep_3:3; Zec_11:3“ - Benson.
Russell: Be sober -- To guard against every approach to a spirit of pride and vainglory.
Be vigilant -- It is a life work, a life battle against a mighty foe intrenched in our flesh.
Your adversary -- Satan, and the fallen angels.
The devil -- Greek, diabolos. Satan. The term Satan signifies adversary, opponent. He beguiles with flattery, pride and ambition; vanquishes with despondency; attracts with the pleasure of the present life; seduces through too great reverence of human teachings; and tempts to disloyalty to God.
As a roaring lion -- Angry. When the beast is about to spring upon his prey, he roars so loudly that the victim is paralyzed with fear, and thus is easily caught. Fear is one of the most disastrous things for the Lord's people to have. Sometimes, lion-like, when we are off guard he springs upon us unawares, stirs up the evil of the old nature, and unless desperately resisted he will take full control and drive us on to ruin.
As God incites by love, so Satan incites through fear.
Whom he may devour -- Swallow up in calamity, laying snares to separate us from God. To overcome us, to crush out our spiritual, life, and to destroy our faith in God. The Adversary opposes all who walk in the footsteps of Jesus, particularly those in public places and those active in the service of the truth. Satan can make no direct attack upon the Lord, but he can attack his plan and those who believe in God.
Are you taking this seriously?
Are you keeping watch?
1 Peter 5:9 TPT Take a decisive stand against him and resist his every attack with strong, vigorous faith. For you know that your believing brothers and sisters around the world are experiencing the same kinds of troubles you endure.
Guzik: Resist him, steadfast in the faith: The secret of spiritual warfare is simple, steadfast, resistance. As we are steadfast in the faith, we resist the devil lies and threats and intimidation.
i. Significantly, Peter doesn’t tell us to cast demons out of other Christians. He simply challenges individual Christians to deal with Satan as a conquered foe who can and must be personally resisted.
ii. Resist comes from two Greek words: stand and against. Peter tells us to stand against the devil. Satan can be set running by the resistance of the lowliest believer who comes in the authority of what Jesus did on the cross.
d. Knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world: We also take comfort in knowing that we are never alone in our spiritual warfare. Our brothers and sisters in Jesus have fought, and are fighting, the same battles.
Russell: Whom resist -- Our safety from the power of Satan and the fallen angels lies in the resistance of our wills. By not allowing his seductive arguments to have weight with us. By standing; to stand is to adhere to fixed principles; i.e., to "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord." (1Co_15:58) It is a continual battle.
"Put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand." (Eph_6:11) R1859:2
If Satan be not resisted, the danger is that the light and the blessing received through the knowledge of God will become a curse and an injury; and that the result will be worse than before coming into relationship with Christ.
Stedfast -- These words imply that in order to resist we must have faith; confidence in God.
In the faith -- "This is the victory that overcometh the world, even your faith." (1Jo_5:4)
Clarke: Whom resist - Stand against him, αντιστητε. Though invulnerable, he is not unconquerable: the weakest follower of God can confound and overpower him, if he continue steadfast in the faith - believing on the Son of God, and walking uprightly before him. To a soul thus engaged he can do no damage.
The same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren - It is the lot of all the disciples of Christ to suffer persecution. The brotherhood, αδελφοτης, the Christian Church, everywhere is exposed to the assaults of men and devils; you are persecuted by the heathen among whom ye live, and from among whom ye are gathered into the fold of Christ: but even those who profess the same faith with you, and who are resident among the Jews, (for so I think εν κοσμῳ, in the world, is here to be understood), are also persecuted, both heathens and Jews being equally opposed to the pure and holy doctrines of the Gospel.
Are you standing against sin and Satan?
1 Peter 5:10 TPT And then, after your brief suffering, the God of all loving grace, who has called you to share in his eternal glory in Christ, will personally and powerfully restore you and make you stronger than ever. Yes, he will set you firmly in place and build you up.
1 Peter 5:11 TPT And he has all the power needed to do this—forever! Amen.
Guzik: (1Pe_5:10-11) A prayer for their spiritual strengthening.
May the God of all grace . . . perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you: Peter, knowing the suffering and danger Christians face, can only conclude with prayer. He asks God to do His work of perfecting, establishing, strengthening, and settling.
i. These things are God’s work in us and through us. Peter personally knew the futility of trying to face suffering and danger in one’s own strength. His own failure taught him the need for constant reliance on God’s work in our lives, so he prays for his dear Christian friends.
ii. After you have suffered a while: We almost want to ask Peter, “Why did you say that?” But the truth remains. We are only called . . . to His eternal glory . . . after you have suffered a while. We wish we were called to His eternal glory on the “no suffering” plan. But God uses suffering to perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle us.
b. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever: The God who can do this great work in our lives is worthy of our praise!
Russell: The God of all grace -- Is not vengeful, not unkind.
This suffering takes in all of our present life's experiences. Unless we are willing to endure hardness, we will not be prepared to enter the eternal glory. (2Ti_2:3) The chastisements we receive, many of which are not punishments for sins, are but preparation for the work of the next age.
"Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings." (1Pe_4:13)
Make you perfect -- We will not be actually perfect until we attain the resurrection change.
Stablish, strengthen -- After being perfected through suffering. Settle you -- Established in the faith and in the practice of the principles of the Gospel. A condition of uncertainty is not a condition of faith. It is our duty to have settled convictions of truth, convictions so rooted and grounded in God's Word that we cannot be moved therefrom.
It is only through endurance as good soldiers of Christ that this desirable condition can be attained, viz., perfect self-control and ability to resist evil, established faith, patience and virtue, settled, abiding rest in Christ, and hope through his word of promise.
How do you react to your trials?
Do you find yourself getting stronger?
1 Peter 5:12 TPT I, Peter, with the help of Silas, whom I consider a trustworthy, faith-filled brother, have written you this short letter so that I might encourage you and personally testify that this is the true, dependable grace of God. Stand fast in this grace.
Guzik: (1Pe_5:12-14) Conclusion to the letter.
By Silvanus . . . I have written to you: This portion was probably written by Peter’s own hand, after he (according to the custom of the day) had dictated the bulk of the letter to Silvanus. This man Silvanus is probably the same one known as Silas in many of Paul’s letters.
This is the true grace of God in which you stand: Peter sums up his message as an exhortation to understand and recognize the true grace of God in which you stand. We must understand not only what God’s grace is, but that grace is our place of present standing before Him.
Benson: By Silvanus — The person probably of that name, whom St. Paul united with himself in writing the epistles to the Thessalonians, namely, Silas, who (Act_15:22) is called a chief man among the brethren, and a prophet, Act_15:32. Being Paul’s constant companion in travel after the defection of John Mark, he, no doubt, assisted in planting churches in Galatia, and the other countries of the Lesser Asia, mentioned chap. 1Pe_1:1. So being well known to the brethren in those parts, he was a fit person to carry this letter to them from St. Peter; to whom, probably, after Paul’s death, he had attached himself as an assistant. A faithful brother, as I suppose -- As I judge upon good grounds, though not by immediate inspiration; I have written briefly — Δι ολιγων, in few words; exhorting and testifying — Or adding my testimony, as επιμαρτυρων signifies; namely, to that which they had before heard from Paul; that this is the true grace of God — The true and only doctrine proceeding from the grace of God, and wherein the grace of God is offered and bestowed upon all penitent believers; and therefore earnestly exhorting you to attend to and seriously consider it.
Clarke: By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose - If the words be applied to Silvanus, they must be taken in a sense in which they are often used: “I conclude him to be a trustworthy person; one by whom I may safely send this letter; who will take care to travel through the different regions in Asia, Pontus, Galatia, and Bithynia; read it in every Church; and leave a copy for the encouragement and instruction of Christ’s flock.” And in such a state of the Church, in such countries, no ordinary person could have been intrusted with such a message.
Exhorting - Calling upon you to be faithful, humble, and steady.
And testifying - Επιμαρτυρων, Earnestly witnessing, that it is the true grace - the genuine Gospel of Jesus Christ, in which ye stand, and in which ye should persevere to the end.
1 Peter 5:13 TPT She who is in Babylon, who is co-elect with you, sends her greetings, along with Mark, my son.
1 Peter 5:14 TPT Greet one another with a kiss of peace. Peace to all who are in life union with Christ. Amen.
Guzik: She who is in Babylon . . . greets you: She probably refers to the church, which in Greek is in the feminine. Peter apparently writes from Babylon. This may be the literal city of Babylon (which still existed in Peter’s day), or it may be a symbolic way of referring to either Rome or Jerusalem. These were two cities that in Peter’s day were famous for their wickedness and spiritual rebellion, just like ancient Babylon. In any regard, this is one church greeting another.
d. So does Mark my son: This verse connects Mark with Peter, apparently the same Mark of Act_12:12; Act_12:25; Act_15:37-39. When the style and perspective of the Gospel of Mark are taken into account, many to believe that Peter was Mark’s primary source of information for his gospel.
e. Greet one another with a kiss of love: Peter concludes with a command to greet and display God’s love to one another, and by pronouncing a blessing of peace. These two things - love for each other and peace - are especially necessary for those who suffer and live in dangerous times.
Benson: There being many Jews remaining in Babylon, and in the country adjacent, ever since the captivity, and Peter being the apostle of the Jews, it is likely he went thither to preach the gospel to them, and so planted a church among them. Elected together with you — Συνεκλεκτη, co-elect, that is, a branch of God’s chosen people, as all true believers are. See on 1Pe_1:2. And Marcus my son — So he calls him, because he had been converted by his ministry. With the family, of which he was a member, Peter was well acquainted, as may be gathered from his going immediately to the house of Mary, Mark’s mother, after he was miraculously brought out of prison by the angel, Act_12:12. See more concerning him, Act_13:5; Col_4:10; 2Ti_4:11. It is believed by many that he was the author of the gospel called by his name; this, however, is not certain. See the preface to that gospel.
Guzik: The elders who are among you I exhort: Peter will give a word of exhortation to the elders who are among the Christians reading this letter. These elders have special responsibilities that Peter will address.
i. The idea of the elder came into church life from Jewish culture (Exo_3:16; Exo_12:21; Exo_19:7). The word “elder” simply speaks of the maturity and wisdom that an older person should have, making them qualified for leadership. In its application, it is more about wisdom and maturity than age.
ii. It was the practice of Paul and Barnabas to appoint elders in the churches they had founded (Act_14:23). There was also the development of the office of pastor, who was essentially a teaching elder (1Ti_5:17) who appointed and guided elders and other leaders (1Ti_3:1-13, 2Ti_2:2, Tit_1:5-9).
b. I who am a fellow elder: Peter is qualified to speak because he is a fellow elder. Though Peter was clearly the prominent disciple among the twelve, he claims no special privilege or position, such as the “Pope” of the early church. Instead, Peter sees himself only as one fellow elder among all the elders in the church.
c. A witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: Peter is qualified to speak because he is a witness of Jesus’ sufferings, when he saw Jesus’ torture and crucifixion, and he was a partaker of Jesus’ glory, probably when he saw Jesus’ transfiguration.
i. Peter wrote about suffering and glory in the Christian life (1Pe_4:12-13). Because Peter saw both suffering and glory in the life of Jesus, he can speak with the authority of an eyewitness.
Russell: The elders -- The Apostle has been addressing the elders of the Church, exhorting them to give attention to the feeding of God's flock and pointing out what should be the constraining influence to such a service. They should be examples in the matter of meekness, and courtesy, so that as the brethren would copy these elders the spirit of the Lord would prevail. The Apostle distinctly points out that a servant is not a ruler, that a servant has no authority.
The Lord does not raise up rulers from among our brethren in the Body of Christ, but he does raise up faithful leaders, to whom earnest heed should be given, and whose faith and example should be imitated.
1 Peter 5:2 TPT to be compassionate shepherds who tenderly care for God’s flock and who feed them well, for you have the responsibility to guide, protect, and oversee. Consider it a joyous pleasure and not merely a religious duty. Lead from the heart under God’s leadership—not as a way to gain finances dishonestly but as a way to eagerly and cheerfully serve.
Guzik: They must shepherd the flock of God. Peter seems to be remembering Jesus’ three-part commission to him in Joh_21:15-17. In that passage, Jesus told Peter to show his love for Jesus by feeding and tending Jesus’ sheep.
i. How does a spiritual shepherd do his job? The first job is to feed the sheep. Jesus emphasized this to Peter in Joh_21:15-17. Another aspect of the job is to tend the sheep, which means protecting, guiding, nurturing, and caring for the sheep.
ii. The most important “tool” to shepherd the flock of God is a heart like Jesus’, that is willing to give one’s life for the sheep, and who genuinely cares about and is interested in them (Joh_10:11-14).
b. Serving as overseers: For Peter, the job of being a shepherd can also be understood as being an overseer. This word for leadership comes to the church from Greek culture, and it means someone who watches over, a manager, or a supervisor (Act_20:28, 1Ti_3:1-2, Tit_1:7).
c. Not by compulsion but willingly: Shepherds should not do their job by compulsion, as if they were being forced into a task they really hated. Instead, they should serve God and His people willingly, from a heart that loves sheep and wants to serve.
i. “None of God’s soldiers are mercenaries or pressed men: they are all volunteers. We must have a shepherd’s heart if we would do a shepherd’s work.” (Meyer)
d. Not for dishonest gain but eagerly: Shepherds should not do their job for dishonest gain. The gain is dishonest because it was their motive for serving as shepherds. Instead, they should serve eagerly, willing to serve apart from financial compensation.
Benson: Feed the flock of God — Both by doctrine and discipline; which is among you — Namely, the churches of Christ, which you are called to preside over;
taking the oversight thereof — Greek, επισκοπουντες, discharging the episcopal office. By this it appears that those who are styled bishops, from their having the oversight of others, and also presbyters, or elders, are spoken of as the same persons.
Not by constraint — Unwillingly, as if it were a burden; but willingly — “In the first age, when the profession of the gospel exposed men to persecution, and when the persecutions fell more especially on the bishops, it may easily be imagined that some who were appointed to that office would undertake it unwillingly; not only because they were not disposed to do the duties thereof diligently, but because they were not willing to suffer.”
Not for filthy lucre — Which, if it be the motive of acting, is filthy beyond expression. The apostle means also, not for a maintenance; for the sake of which merely, or chiefly, no one should undertake the pastoral office. They that preach the gospel may live by the gospel, but no one ought to engage in such a work merely that he may live by it. “O consider this, ye that leave one flock and go to another, merely ‘because there is more gain, a larger salary!’ Is it not astonishing that men ‘can see no harm in this?’ That it is not only practised, but avowed, all over the nation?” — Wesley.
But of a ready mind — With a sincere desire to glorify God…. In the Syriac version, the word προθυμως, here used, is translated toto corde, with the whole heart. Dr. Benson’s observation on this verse is, “How severely are they here condemned, who feed themselves and not the flock; who take the patrimony of the church, and commit the care of souls to others, to whom they allow a very small share of that plenty which they have for doing little.”
Russell: Feed the flock -- With meat in due season; avoiding teachers that have ears that itch for popularity and flattery. The lambs and sheep make one flock, and there is but one Shepherd, who superintends and cares for all. The elders are not commissioned to shear, frighten nor club the sheep.
Of God -- Not, your flock, your people, your church, as many ministers today speak.
"My sheep know my voice." (Joh_10:27)
Taking the oversight -- To feed them with the truth, to guard them against the wolves in sheep's clothing, and in a general way, to act as their representatives.
But willingly -- Willing to assume the labors and responsibilities of the service.
Not for filthy lucre -- In the early Church the elders served weekly meetings without thought of compensation; probably continuing their usual work or business for a livelihood.
There are noble and ignoble ambitions.
Of a ready mind -- With a desire to serve the Lord and the brethren.
Do your teachers fit this description?
Do your ministers live sumptuously off the congregation?
Do they love and feed the flock? Or is it just a job?
1 Peter 5:3 (Williams) and not as domineering over those in your charge but proving yourselves models for the flock to imitate;
Guzik: Nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock: Shepherds should not do their job as lords, because the sheep do not belong to them. The sheep are entrusted to them. Instead, shepherds are to serve by being examples, not dictators.
i. Nor as being lords shows that in the mind of Peter, shepherds had significant authority in the early church. If the office of shepherd was so powerless that a shepherd didn’t rule and lead, then there was little potential for being lords. But because Peter gives this warning, it shows there was the potential for lording over.
ii. The sobering fact is that pastors are examples to the flock, whether they intend to be or not. It is interesting to see how a congregation takes on the personality of its pastor in good ways and bad ways.
Russell: As being lords -- Ecclesiastical potentates, Doctors of divinity, etc. Assuming to be lords.
Attempting to take the place of the Lord and acting arrogantly toward the brethren. The elders should remember that they are not the Chief Shepherd, but only the under-shepherds. If any should lord it over the flock, he would bring injury to himself as well as to the Church; he would be cultivating a spirit of pride.
The spirit of ambition, rivalry, and desire to be greatest amongst the Lord's people is one of the most dangerous foes of the Church, not only to those over whom they rule, but also to those who will be rulers and teachers.
Beginning before 325 AD, this doctrine had been growing; the bishops began to manifest the attitude that they were higher than the common people, that they were the church and the common people the laity.
Over God's heritage -- The Church.
Being ensamples -- Patterns of humility, faithfulness, zeal and godliness.
Are your Pastor’s the boss?
Do you have to ask their permission on personal decisions?
1 Peter 5:4 TPT And when the Shepherd-King appears, you will win the victor’s crown of glory that never fades away.
Guzik: The reward for leaders in the church.
When the Chief Shepherd appears: Peter reminds shepherds in the church that they will answer one day to their Chief Shepherd, who will want to know what they did with His flock!
i. It is important for shepherds - pastors - to realize that they lead Jesus’ sheep. He is the Shepherd, He is the Overseer (1Pe_2:25). In this sense, the Christian shepherd doesn’t work for the sheep, he works for the Chief Shepherd.
b. You will receive a crown of glory: Faithful shepherds are promised a crown of glory, but not like the crown of leaves given to ancient Olympic champions. This crown will not fade away.
Crowns are not only for shepherds, but for everyone who was faithful to Jesus and who did what He called them to do (1Co_9:25, 2Ti_4:8, Jas_1:12).
Benson: shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away — A crown which shall bloom in immortal beauty and vigour, when all the transitory glories of this world are withered, like a fading flower. In the original expression, αμαραντινον, amaranthine, there is an allusion to the crowns of green leaves and herbs bestowed by the ancients as the rewards of military prowess, or of victory in the games. These, together with the honours of which they were the symbols, soon faded away; but the crown of glory, the reward to be given to faithful shepherds, will never fade, being a crown of righteousness, 2Ti_4:8, and a crown of life, Jas_1:12.
Russell: The chief Shepherd -- The Lord established but one Church, and over that one Church he himself is the only "Lord" and "Head," the only authority.
A crown of glory -- Immortality, the divine nature. This crown that is reserved for us is conditional.
"To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne." (Rev_3:21)
Fadeth not away -- The Lord will give to his overcoming Bride the crown of life "that fadeth not away." (1Pe_1:4)
Are you eager for that day?
1 Peter 5:5 TPT In the same way, the younger ones should willingly support the leadership of the elders. In every relationship, each of you must wrap around yourself the apron of a humble servant. Because: God resists you when you are proud but multiplies grace and favor when you are humble.
Guzik: Likewise you younger people: Peter begins this word of humility to you younger people, in contrast to the elders he has just addressed. But he soon realizes that it is of application to all of you. This word to be submissive to one another and be clothed with humility applies to everyone, but perhaps especially to the young.
b. Clothed with humility: Humility is demonstrated by submission. It is the ability to cheerfully put away our own agenda for God’s, even if God’s agenda is expressed through another person.
c. Be clothed with humility: “Be clothed” translates a rare word that refers to a slave putting on an apron before serving, even as Jesus did before washing the disciple’s feet (Joh_13:4).
d. For “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Humility is essential to our relationship with God. If we want to walk in God’s grace (His unmerited favor) then we must lay aside our pride and be humble - not only to Him but also to one another.
i. Grace and pride are eternal enemies. Pride demands that God bless me in light of what I think I deserve. Grace will only deal with me on the basis what is in God (love), not on the basis of anything in me.
i. “Pride is one of the most detestable of sins; yet does it find lodgment in earnest souls, though we often speak of it by some lighter name. We call it - independence, self-reliance. We do not always discern it in the hurt feeling, which retires into itself, and nurses its sorrows in a sulk . . . We are proud of our humility, vain of our meekness; and, putting on the saintliest look, we wonder whether all around are not admiring us for our lowliness.” (Meyer)
Meyer: The younger men may include the deacons, but the all, 1Pe_5:5, refers to the entire membership. They were to gird on humility, as a slave his towel, that they might serve one another, Joh_13:4. Those who humble themselves in the profoundest loyalty toward God stand as rocks before their fellows. Remember Luther’s-“Here I stand, I can do no other.” You cannot say, “Nobody cares what becomes of me.” God cares, and with an infinite tenderness. He cared before you cast your care on Him! God is linked to your little life by His tender regard and care for you.
Russell: Submit yourselves -- We are cautioned not to defy the elders, nor to blindly and worshipfully follow them without proving their teachings by the Word of God.
Subject one to another -- We are to be subject to the Lord and every ordinance of God; and to consider the truly consecrated people of God as a unit and to seek to cooperate one with another.
In humility and meekness, we are to harmoniously cooperate together as one body for upbuilding in love and all the Christian graces, and for the general advancement of the work of the Lord.
All are so anxious to serve and so independent in their feelings that it sometimes means as many different plans and arrangements as there are members in the congregation; patience, forbearance and love are qualities greatly needed.
Clothed with humility --Humility is one of the basic principles of a properly crystalized character. "Gird yourself with humility, to serve one another." (Revised Version) The humble spirit seeketh not its own, is not puffed up, does not attempt to speculate upon inflated values, does not think of itself more highly than it ought to think, but thinks soberly--neither overrating, nor underrating its own acquirements or achievements. Outside of every other adornment of character, and covering all others, should be this robe of humble-mindedness, the opposite disposition to pride.
God resisteth -- Because the Almighty sees that we have nothing whatever of which to be proud or to boast. Whatever we have has been of the Lord's providence, or favoring circumstances. He disapproves of pride; all who are actuated by pride may be sure that the Lord will resist them, push them from him.
The proud -- The self-sufficient, the boastful. Pride is selfishness gone to seed. Nothing is more dangerous to the child of God than self-conceit; it blocks the way to true progress and reformation of heart, and hinders true usefulness to others, and especially usefulness in God's service.
Pride is the one thing that God hates.
Giveth -- Showeth.
Grace -- Favor.
To the humble -- Only the humble will share with the Lord in the inheritance of the Kingdom. It is when we are thus humble and faithful that the Lord makes us his chosen vessels to bear his name to others.
Are you keeping your pride in check?
1 Peter 5:6 TPT If you bow low in God’s awesome presence, he will eventually exalt you as you leave the timing in his hands.
Guzik: That He may exalt you in due time: If God has us in a humble place at the present time, we must submit to God’s plan. He knows the due time to exalt us, though we often think we know that time better than God does.
Russell: Humble yourselves -- As "little children." (Mat_18:3) Some brethren seem not to have learned the lesson of "God first, self last." One of the most important qualities for any of God's people to possess. God will especially bless those who are more lowly, meek, teachable, more trustful in the Lord. Avoid the spirit of ambition, rivalry, and the desire to be greatest amongst the Lord's people.
The tests of the present time are tests of faith and loyalty to God, and of entire submission to his will. Without these we would be quite unfit for the Kingdom. This test comes to the Lord and the Church only during the Gospel age.
Peter evidently had spiritual pride in mind when he wrote to the Church regarding humility. Humility is a very prominent grace in the sight of God. It comes right in as you find your weaknesses; humble yourselves and make it right with God
He may exalt you -- With ultimate victory and life everlasting. To be the Bride, the Lamb's wife; joint-heirs with Jesus Christ our Lord. The way of the cross, the way of humiliation and self-abasement, is the way to the crown, to that true honor that cometh from God only.
"He that humbleth himself shall be exalted." (Luk_14:11
"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and he shall lift you up." (Jam_4:10)
In due time -- After that ye have suffered a while; after He shall have made you ready for the exaltation and for the service He wishes you to perform.
Are you humbling yourself under God?
1 Peter 5:7 TPT Pour out all your worries and stress upon him and leave them there, for he always tenderly cares for you.
Guzik: True humility is shown by our ability to cast our care upon God. It is proud presumption to take things into our own worry and care about things that God has promised to take care of (Mat_5:31-34).
i. Sometimes we need to call worry and inappropriate care exactly what it is: pride and unbelief, and a desire to usurp God’s place as our providing, caring Father.
ii. He cares for you: At their best moments, the religions of Greek culture could imagine a God who was good. Yet they never came to the place where they believed in a God who cared. The God of the Bible - the God who is really there - is a God who cares for you.
We often judge the parents by the children. When a child of God is full of worry and fear, doesn’t the world have reason to believe that their Father in heaven doesn’t care for them? Our worry and fear reflects poorly - in an unfair way - upon God.
Russell: Casting all your care -- Anxiety, worry, trouble of mind. Worries and frettings; anxieties that would hinder us in the 6Lord's service, that would rob us of our peace in the Lord, should be dropped, not carelessly, however, but intelligently.
We cannot be faithful children of God if we are full of worry. Worry is one thing, but proper carefulness is another. We need carry no anxious cares respecting the future.
Let us tell the Lord all about our burdens, great and small.A little carelessness along these lines, and the Adversary might readily entrap us and ensnare us and then lead us captive at his will. This power of intrusion will contain we believe, evil suggestions, promoting slanders and back-biting.
Upon him -- The Shepherd of the flock.
He careth for you -- Each day that a Christian lives he should be more reliant upon the Lord.
"My God shall supply all your need." (Phi_4:19) R3400:4
Illustrated by the feeding of Elijah by the ravens. God did not supply Elijah with luxuries but with the absolute necessities.
What do you worry about?
How do you overcome your worries?
1 Peter 5:8 TPT Be well balanced and always alert, because your enemy, the devil, roams around incessantly, like a roaring lion looking for its prey to devour.
Guzik: Your adversary the devil walks about: We must remain clear-headed (sober) and watchful (vigilant), because Satan has not yet been bound and restrained for 1,000 years as Rev_20:1-2 says he will be. At the present time, the devil walks about.
Barnes: Be sober - While you cast your cares Upon God, and have no anxiety on that score, let your solicitude be directed to another point. Do not doubt that he is able and willing to support and befriend you, but be watchful against your foes. See the word used here fully explained in the notes at 1Th_5:6.
Be vigilant - This word (γρηγορέω grēgoreō) is everywhere else in the New Testament rendered “watch.” See Mat_24:42-43; Mat_25:13; Mat_26:38, Mat_26:40-41. It means that we should exercise careful circumspection, as one does when he is in danger. In reference to the matter here referred to, it means that we are to be on our guard against the wiles and the power of the evil one.
Your adversary the devil - Your enemy; he who is opposed to you. Satan opposes man in his best interests. He resists his efforts to do good; his purposes to return to God; his attempts to secure his own salvation. There is no more appropriate appellation that can be given to him than to say that he resists all our efforts to obey God and to secure the salvation of our own souls.
As a roaring lion - Compare Rev_12:12. Sometimes Satan is represented as transforming himself into an angel of light, (see the notes at 2Co_11:14); and sometimes, as here, as a roaring lion: denoting the efforts which he makes to alarm and overpower us. The lion here is not the crouching lion - the lion stealthfully creeping toward his foe - but it is the raging monarch of the woods, who by his terrible roar would intimidate all so that they might become an easy prey. The particular thing referred to here, doubtless, is persecution, resembling in its terrors a roaring lion. When error comes in; when seductive arts abound; when the world allures and charms the representation of the character of the foe is not of the roaring lion, but of the silent influence of an enemy that has clothed himself in the garb of an angel of light, 2Co_11:14.
Walketh about, seeking whom he may devour - “Naturalists have observed that a lion roars when he is roused with hunger, for then he is most fierce, and most eagerly seeks his prey. See Jdg_14:5; Psa_22:13; Jer_2:15; Eze_22:25; Hos_11:10; Zep_3:3; Zec_11:3“ - Benson.
Russell: Be sober -- To guard against every approach to a spirit of pride and vainglory.
Be vigilant -- It is a life work, a life battle against a mighty foe intrenched in our flesh.
Your adversary -- Satan, and the fallen angels.
The devil -- Greek, diabolos. Satan. The term Satan signifies adversary, opponent. He beguiles with flattery, pride and ambition; vanquishes with despondency; attracts with the pleasure of the present life; seduces through too great reverence of human teachings; and tempts to disloyalty to God.
As a roaring lion -- Angry. When the beast is about to spring upon his prey, he roars so loudly that the victim is paralyzed with fear, and thus is easily caught. Fear is one of the most disastrous things for the Lord's people to have. Sometimes, lion-like, when we are off guard he springs upon us unawares, stirs up the evil of the old nature, and unless desperately resisted he will take full control and drive us on to ruin.
As God incites by love, so Satan incites through fear.
Whom he may devour -- Swallow up in calamity, laying snares to separate us from God. To overcome us, to crush out our spiritual, life, and to destroy our faith in God. The Adversary opposes all who walk in the footsteps of Jesus, particularly those in public places and those active in the service of the truth. Satan can make no direct attack upon the Lord, but he can attack his plan and those who believe in God.
Are you taking this seriously?
Are you keeping watch?
1 Peter 5:9 TPT Take a decisive stand against him and resist his every attack with strong, vigorous faith. For you know that your believing brothers and sisters around the world are experiencing the same kinds of troubles you endure.
Guzik: Resist him, steadfast in the faith: The secret of spiritual warfare is simple, steadfast, resistance. As we are steadfast in the faith, we resist the devil lies and threats and intimidation.
i. Significantly, Peter doesn’t tell us to cast demons out of other Christians. He simply challenges individual Christians to deal with Satan as a conquered foe who can and must be personally resisted.
ii. Resist comes from two Greek words: stand and against. Peter tells us to stand against the devil. Satan can be set running by the resistance of the lowliest believer who comes in the authority of what Jesus did on the cross.
d. Knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world: We also take comfort in knowing that we are never alone in our spiritual warfare. Our brothers and sisters in Jesus have fought, and are fighting, the same battles.
Russell: Whom resist -- Our safety from the power of Satan and the fallen angels lies in the resistance of our wills. By not allowing his seductive arguments to have weight with us. By standing; to stand is to adhere to fixed principles; i.e., to "be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord." (1Co_15:58) It is a continual battle.
"Put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand." (Eph_6:11) R1859:2
If Satan be not resisted, the danger is that the light and the blessing received through the knowledge of God will become a curse and an injury; and that the result will be worse than before coming into relationship with Christ.
Stedfast -- These words imply that in order to resist we must have faith; confidence in God.
In the faith -- "This is the victory that overcometh the world, even your faith." (1Jo_5:4)
Clarke: Whom resist - Stand against him, αντιστητε. Though invulnerable, he is not unconquerable: the weakest follower of God can confound and overpower him, if he continue steadfast in the faith - believing on the Son of God, and walking uprightly before him. To a soul thus engaged he can do no damage.
The same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren - It is the lot of all the disciples of Christ to suffer persecution. The brotherhood, αδελφοτης, the Christian Church, everywhere is exposed to the assaults of men and devils; you are persecuted by the heathen among whom ye live, and from among whom ye are gathered into the fold of Christ: but even those who profess the same faith with you, and who are resident among the Jews, (for so I think εν κοσμῳ, in the world, is here to be understood), are also persecuted, both heathens and Jews being equally opposed to the pure and holy doctrines of the Gospel.
Are you standing against sin and Satan?
1 Peter 5:10 TPT And then, after your brief suffering, the God of all loving grace, who has called you to share in his eternal glory in Christ, will personally and powerfully restore you and make you stronger than ever. Yes, he will set you firmly in place and build you up.
1 Peter 5:11 TPT And he has all the power needed to do this—forever! Amen.
Guzik: (1Pe_5:10-11) A prayer for their spiritual strengthening.
May the God of all grace . . . perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you: Peter, knowing the suffering and danger Christians face, can only conclude with prayer. He asks God to do His work of perfecting, establishing, strengthening, and settling.
i. These things are God’s work in us and through us. Peter personally knew the futility of trying to face suffering and danger in one’s own strength. His own failure taught him the need for constant reliance on God’s work in our lives, so he prays for his dear Christian friends.
ii. After you have suffered a while: We almost want to ask Peter, “Why did you say that?” But the truth remains. We are only called . . . to His eternal glory . . . after you have suffered a while. We wish we were called to His eternal glory on the “no suffering” plan. But God uses suffering to perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle us.
b. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever: The God who can do this great work in our lives is worthy of our praise!
Russell: The God of all grace -- Is not vengeful, not unkind.
This suffering takes in all of our present life's experiences. Unless we are willing to endure hardness, we will not be prepared to enter the eternal glory. (2Ti_2:3) The chastisements we receive, many of which are not punishments for sins, are but preparation for the work of the next age.
"Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings." (1Pe_4:13)
Make you perfect -- We will not be actually perfect until we attain the resurrection change.
Stablish, strengthen -- After being perfected through suffering. Settle you -- Established in the faith and in the practice of the principles of the Gospel. A condition of uncertainty is not a condition of faith. It is our duty to have settled convictions of truth, convictions so rooted and grounded in God's Word that we cannot be moved therefrom.
It is only through endurance as good soldiers of Christ that this desirable condition can be attained, viz., perfect self-control and ability to resist evil, established faith, patience and virtue, settled, abiding rest in Christ, and hope through his word of promise.
How do you react to your trials?
Do you find yourself getting stronger?
1 Peter 5:12 TPT I, Peter, with the help of Silas, whom I consider a trustworthy, faith-filled brother, have written you this short letter so that I might encourage you and personally testify that this is the true, dependable grace of God. Stand fast in this grace.
Guzik: (1Pe_5:12-14) Conclusion to the letter.
By Silvanus . . . I have written to you: This portion was probably written by Peter’s own hand, after he (according to the custom of the day) had dictated the bulk of the letter to Silvanus. This man Silvanus is probably the same one known as Silas in many of Paul’s letters.
This is the true grace of God in which you stand: Peter sums up his message as an exhortation to understand and recognize the true grace of God in which you stand. We must understand not only what God’s grace is, but that grace is our place of present standing before Him.
Benson: By Silvanus — The person probably of that name, whom St. Paul united with himself in writing the epistles to the Thessalonians, namely, Silas, who (Act_15:22) is called a chief man among the brethren, and a prophet, Act_15:32. Being Paul’s constant companion in travel after the defection of John Mark, he, no doubt, assisted in planting churches in Galatia, and the other countries of the Lesser Asia, mentioned chap. 1Pe_1:1. So being well known to the brethren in those parts, he was a fit person to carry this letter to them from St. Peter; to whom, probably, after Paul’s death, he had attached himself as an assistant. A faithful brother, as I suppose -- As I judge upon good grounds, though not by immediate inspiration; I have written briefly — Δι ολιγων, in few words; exhorting and testifying — Or adding my testimony, as επιμαρτυρων signifies; namely, to that which they had before heard from Paul; that this is the true grace of God — The true and only doctrine proceeding from the grace of God, and wherein the grace of God is offered and bestowed upon all penitent believers; and therefore earnestly exhorting you to attend to and seriously consider it.
Clarke: By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose - If the words be applied to Silvanus, they must be taken in a sense in which they are often used: “I conclude him to be a trustworthy person; one by whom I may safely send this letter; who will take care to travel through the different regions in Asia, Pontus, Galatia, and Bithynia; read it in every Church; and leave a copy for the encouragement and instruction of Christ’s flock.” And in such a state of the Church, in such countries, no ordinary person could have been intrusted with such a message.
Exhorting - Calling upon you to be faithful, humble, and steady.
And testifying - Επιμαρτυρων, Earnestly witnessing, that it is the true grace - the genuine Gospel of Jesus Christ, in which ye stand, and in which ye should persevere to the end.
1 Peter 5:13 TPT She who is in Babylon, who is co-elect with you, sends her greetings, along with Mark, my son.
1 Peter 5:14 TPT Greet one another with a kiss of peace. Peace to all who are in life union with Christ. Amen.
Guzik: She who is in Babylon . . . greets you: She probably refers to the church, which in Greek is in the feminine. Peter apparently writes from Babylon. This may be the literal city of Babylon (which still existed in Peter’s day), or it may be a symbolic way of referring to either Rome or Jerusalem. These were two cities that in Peter’s day were famous for their wickedness and spiritual rebellion, just like ancient Babylon. In any regard, this is one church greeting another.
d. So does Mark my son: This verse connects Mark with Peter, apparently the same Mark of Act_12:12; Act_12:25; Act_15:37-39. When the style and perspective of the Gospel of Mark are taken into account, many to believe that Peter was Mark’s primary source of information for his gospel.
e. Greet one another with a kiss of love: Peter concludes with a command to greet and display God’s love to one another, and by pronouncing a blessing of peace. These two things - love for each other and peace - are especially necessary for those who suffer and live in dangerous times.
Benson: There being many Jews remaining in Babylon, and in the country adjacent, ever since the captivity, and Peter being the apostle of the Jews, it is likely he went thither to preach the gospel to them, and so planted a church among them. Elected together with you — Συνεκλεκτη, co-elect, that is, a branch of God’s chosen people, as all true believers are. See on 1Pe_1:2. And Marcus my son — So he calls him, because he had been converted by his ministry. With the family, of which he was a member, Peter was well acquainted, as may be gathered from his going immediately to the house of Mary, Mark’s mother, after he was miraculously brought out of prison by the angel, Act_12:12. See more concerning him, Act_13:5; Col_4:10; 2Ti_4:11. It is believed by many that he was the author of the gospel called by his name; this, however, is not certain. See the preface to that gospel.
