New Testament
1 Peter 5:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also as one who will share in the glory that will be revealed:
Compare translations
The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
What 1 Peter 5:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Peter addresses the elders in the community, urging them to take their roles seriously. He identifies himself as a fellow elder, sharing in their responsibilities and challenges. Peter also emphasizes his experience as a witness to Christ's sufferings, which adds weight to his message. He reminds them that they will also share in the glory that will be revealed in the future. This connection between suffering and glory is significant, as it highlights the journey of faith. Elders are called to lead with humility and strength, knowing that their efforts are part of a greater purpose. Peter's words encourage them to remain steadfast, even in difficult times, as they look forward to the ultimate reward. This verse serves as a reminder that leadership in faith comes with both challenges and promises of hope. It invites elders to reflect on their role and the impact they have on their community, fostering a sense of unity and shared mission among them. Their leadership is not just a duty but a calling.
How to apply 1 Peter 5:1 to your life
Consider how you can support and encourage leaders in your community. Acknowledge their challenges and remind them of the hope that lies ahead. Engage in conversations that uplift and inspire, fostering a spirit of unity and shared purpose. Your encouragement can make a significant difference in their journey of faith. Lead by example in your own life as well, showing humility and strength in your actions.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Peter Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Peter Writes to the Churches (1 Peter 5:1)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Peter 5:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Peter 5:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Peter
- Author
- Peter the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-64
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Persecuted Christians in Asia Minor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Peter 5:1 teach about church leadership?
1 Peter 5:1 emphasizes the importance of humility and responsibility in church leadership. Peter, addressing the elders, encourages them to lead with care and integrity, reminding them that they share in both the sufferings of Christ and the future glory. This highlights that leadership is not just a position of authority but a calling to serve and support the community.
How can elders apply the message of 1 Peter 5:1 today?
Elders today can apply the message of 1 Peter 5:1 by leading with humility, actively engaging with their community, and being open about their own struggles and experiences. They should encourage unity and support among members, reminding everyone of the hope and glory that awaits them. By fostering a culture of encouragement and shared purpose, they can strengthen their community's faith.
What is the significance of suffering in 1 Peter 5:1?
In 1 Peter 5:1, suffering is significant as it connects the experience of leaders with that of Christ. Peter, as a witness to Christ's sufferings, acknowledges that challenges are part of the faith journey. This serves to remind elders that their struggles are not in vain and that enduring through suffering can lead to greater glory and fulfillment in their spiritual lives.
How does 1 Peter 5:1 relate to the concept of glory?
1 Peter 5:1 relates to the concept of glory by assuring elders that their faithful leadership amidst suffering will lead to a shared glory in the future. This promise of glory serves as motivation for elders to persevere through challenges, reinforcing the idea that their efforts in serving the community will ultimately be rewarded.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.