We continue our study of 1 Peter. We are in chapter 5. Peter, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, is writing to followers of Christ giving them encouragement, and a code of conduct.
In the first few verses of this chapter he has asked the elders to honor their position by “being examples to the flock. To shepherd them, and look after them with a desire to serve. Not because they had to, but because they wanted to”
He continues: ” Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are old. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because ‘ God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves therefore, under God’s mighty hand , that He may lift you up in due time.” 1 Peter 5: 5-6
Peter had asked the elders to set examples to the flock on how they should conduct themselves. He asks the young men to do the same – that is to set examples as well, and be submissive to those who are old. Then he asks everyone to be humble toward one another.
We live in a time when being submissive, or being humble is considered being weak by some. The call is often “WHAT ABOUT ME?”
Father wants every one of His children to be provided for, and to be in peace, and to be in good health, and live life abundantly, and to prosper in all things. He wants to have a kingdom here on earth that is a kingdom of love. All of these things are ours as we live and walk in faith in Christ Jesus. But we must always keep our priorities. Instead of “What about me?”, we need to think “What about US”. The Word says our attitude should be that of Christ Jesus. That we should look not only to our own interests, but also to the interest of others. (Philippians 2: 1-8)
Christ Jesus humbled Himself when the Father asked Him to go save the lost children. He submitted Himself to a physical death on a cross that would be the ultimate one time sacrifice to pay for every sin ever committed by any person. Not because we deserved it or had earned this gift of redemption, but because He loved us. He wanted to. He was, and is, the supreme example of what humility and submission will bring.
It brought forgiveness for all mankind, and a reconciliation with Father God. It brought eternal life to those who will receive Christ Jesus into their hearts. It brought victory to us in this life, and a heaven on earth to those who will allow themselves to follow this great Shepherd. It brought victory to Jesus as ” Father exalted Him to the highest place, and gave Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow in heaven, and on earth, and below the earth, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2: 9-11) He now sits at the right hand of the Father in heaven to Shepherd us as Prophet, Priest and King. God, our Father, lifted Him up.
Let us humble ourselves and submit ourselves therefore in service to our Lord, and to our brothers and sisters. Let us be concerned for the welfare of others as well as our own because we want to. When we do, and when we are, the Lord will lift us up in due time.
Grace, peace, and mercy be yours in abundance, God’s Beloveds.
I love you.
Poppa B
Abundant Life Christian Fellowship, On Line