PART 4: MINISTER IN SUFFERING
(a) Elders, Shepherd The Flock
Peter now appeals to the Elders as a fellow elder and one who had personally witnessed the sufferings of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, one day expecting to share in His glory; “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers” ; not of necessity but because of a willing spirit; not to be money-orientated but to be enthusiastic to serve; not as a powerful land or property-owner with authority, but as a pattern of a humble servant, “And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” as we all shall be rewarded for our suffering.
(b) Saints, Humble Yourselves
As he had addressed the subject of submission, Peter now speaks directly to the younger members of the Church; “Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” , and this applies to church leaders as well, reminding us that God opposes the proud , and that as a result of our humility God will elevate our status in due time. In the meanwhile we are to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” ; being alert to the fact that our enemy the devil is waiting to overcome us, we are to resist him by standing firm in our faith, “because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” ; we are not alone in our distressful situations.
PART 5: BENEDICTION
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
“Stand fast” in the true grace of God
“Peace to all of you who are in Christ.”
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