1 Peter 5:1-11

Read 1 Peter 5:1-11

Helpful Background Information:

• 1 Peter was written by the apostle Peter to the scattered church through Asia minor. These churches consisted of both Jewish believers and gentile believers. It was written to encourage the church towards a holy way of life in the midst of persecution among other moral and social problems. In 1 Peter 5:1-11, Peter’s final charge to these churches is twofold. The first is to be humble, followed by the charge to boldly resist evil. 

• Verses 2-4 talk about being shepherds under God’s flock. This illustration of a shepherd with a flock is used throughout the Bible, not only in the New Testament, but the Old as well. One of the most notable passages pertaining to shepherding is from John 10:11-18, where Jesus claims to be the “Good Shepherd.” This idea of shepherding is meant to add to the theme of humility, as a shepherd walks alongside the sheep and cares for them. 

• Verse 5 references Proverbs 3:34. Throughout the book of Proverbs, God’s heart for the righteous and His justice in opposing the wicked are repeated many times. 1 Peter 5 echoes this through encouraging the church to live in humility instead of pride. 
  

Reflection Questions: 

• How does knowing that Jesus is the “Chief Shepherd” spur you on towards humility in your own leadership responsibilities? How can you submit to this Chief Shepherd?

• Soon after his victory over the king of Assyria, God humbled Hezekiah through an illness that threatened his life (2 Kings 20:1-11). How does success often make room for pride to grow in the hearts of believers? How can you remain humble in times that are easy?

• If humility is complete dependence on God, how can you grow in humility and reliance on God for everything you need? How can you find confidence in Jesus as you seek Him in humility?