Submitting to God"Younger" and "elder" in 1 Peter 5:5 are plural. The two words occurring so close together may well indicate Peter is simply referring to age in both cases and is telling young men to yield to the wisdom of older men.

However, this verse does seem to continue the thoughts of verses 1-4, and makes this author believe Peter is telling the younger members to submit to elders, just as they submit to Christ the Chief Shepherd. Most members would be younger than the elders and this designation would seem to stand for the group of all other members. The next injunction is a general one directed to all Christians. Woods says, "the meaning is, 'Tie on humility like a slave's apron.'" Perhaps Peter was remembering a great lesson the Lord had taught him (John 13:1-17). God is opposed to all who are proud and extends his favor to those who are of a lowly spirit and ready to serve (Proverbs 3:34; Proverbs 6:16-17; Luke 14:7-11; Luke 18:9-14).

Because God opposes the proud and is all powerful, believers should submit to His will knowing that such submission will ultimately lead to their glorification. Similarly, all worries and those things over which they are anxious should be placed in the Lord's hands (Psalms 55:22; Psalms 37:5; Matthew 6:25-34). There is a great consolation in knowing God has care for the individual Christian (1 Peter 5:6-7; Matthew 10:28-31).

Continues after advertising
Continues after advertising