Ed Urzi

“casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7 ESV).

In his second letter to the Thessalonian church, Paul the Apostle sought to respond to those who had misapplied certain aspects of his teachings. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 offers one such example…

“Now regarding the arrival of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to be with him, we ask you, brothers and sisters, not to be easily shaken from your composure or disturbed by any kind of spirit or message or letter allegedly from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord is already here” (2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 NET).

So it appears that certain members of the Thessalonian church were troubled about the subject of Jesus’ return. That state of apprehension apparently stemmed from various sources that were less than trustworthy. Because of this, it might be said that the Thessalonians had fallen into a state of anxiety because they shifted their focus from someone (that being Jesus), to something (the topic of His return in this instance).

In a similar manner, that passage also draws a parallel to a famous event from the Apostle Peter’s life. That event took place when Jesus approached His disciples while walking upon the surface of the water. When Peter left the safety of his boat to accompany Jesus, he reached a point where he began to sink. So just as Peter started to fall beneath the waves when he took his focus off Jesus, these portions of Scripture remind us that it is easy to fall into a state of anxiety if we don’t stay focused on Christ.

In addition to what we read here in 1 Peter 5:7, God’s Word offers several other verses to remember whenever we face those circumstances that might promote a sense of anxiety…

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 NIV).

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27 NIV).

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NIV).

These passages should thus lead us to an important conclusion: “God is not indifferent about His people’s misfortunes. In the present, He will bear the anxiety; in the future, He will abundantly recompense.” ₍₁₎

(1) New International Bible Commentary general editor G. C. D. Howley, consulting editors F. F. Bruce, H. L. Ellison. Copyright© 1979 by Pickering & Inglis Ltd [p. 1562].

“casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

1 Peter 5:7 is a familiar verse that has long provided comfort and encouragement to God’s people in times of pain or trouble. Although we often view this passage in isolation, it actually marks the end of a three-verse reflection on humility that started in 1 Peter 5:5. That discussion began with the following admonition: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”

In verse six, we were next reminded to humbly submit to God’s will so He might exalt us at the appropriate time. This section now ends with a call to action here in 1 Peter 5:7: we humble ourselves before God by casting our cares upon Him.

In the New Testament era, this reference to “casting” typically involved a saddle blanket that was placed upon a horse or donkey. Today, we might evoke a comparable image whenever we cast a similar covering across a bed or couch. These illustrations help provide us with a clearer understanding of what it means to act upon this verse.

In another sense, we might view this passage as the final destination of a three-part journey. That journey begins with any situation that might provoke feelings of worry or anxiety. The challenge for us is this: how do we get from that starting point to the destination where we “cast all our cares upon Him”? The best way to answer that question is to begin by seeking God’s empowerment to follow these Biblical directives…

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

“…be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT).

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 NIV).

Therefore, as a commentator from an earlier generation reminds us…

“Cast ‘all you care;’ personal cares, family cares, cares for the present, and cares for the future, for yourselves, for others, for the church, on God. These are burdensome, and often very sinful, when they arise from unbelief and distrust, when they torture and distract the mind, unfit us for duties, and hinder our delight in the service of God.” ₍₁₎

(1) Henry, Matthew. “Complete Commentary on 1 Peter 5”. “Henry’s Complete Commentary on the Whole Bible”. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/mhm/1-peter-5.html. 1706.

“So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time He will lift you up in honor” (1 Peter 5:6 NLT).

The Bible records many instances of hubris, a descriptive word that deserves greater exposure in our contemporary world. One source defines hubris as, “An ancient Greek word meaning pride or arrogance, used particularly to mean the kind of excessive pride or conceit that often brings about someone’s downfall.” ₍₁₎

We can find one Biblical example of that attitude in the experience of Nebuchadnezzar, the ancient king of Babylon. The Old Testament book of Daniel tells us, “…as [Nebuchadnezzar] was walking on the roof of the royal palace in Babylon, the king exclaimed, ‘Is this not Babylon the Great that I have built by my vast power to be a royal residence and to display my majestic glory?'” (Daniel 4:29-30). That display of hubris earned Nebuchadnezzar a swift rebuke, along with ramifications that lasted until he learned to adopt a more appropriate attitude towards God (see Daniel, chapter four).

King Uzziah of Judah serves as another Biblical illustration. The book of 2 Chronicles tells us. “…when King Uzziah became strong, he grew arrogant, and that led to his downfall. He defied the Lord his God by going into the Temple to burn incense on the altar of incense” (2 Chronicles 26:16 GNT). That decision did not end well for Uzziah.

In the New Testament, we have the experience of King Herod Agrippa I. During an address to a group of people who were seeking to win his favor, Herod’s speech was repeatedly interrupted with cries of, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man” (Acts 12:22 NIV). Herod apparently did not restrain the crowd from expressing those sentiments, nor did he give God the honor He rightfully deserved. That oversight eventually led to his gruesome death as a result.

Even those who strive to honor God can suffer lapses in this area. Judah’s King Hezekiah offers one such example. Hezekiah was a good king who enacted several positive reforms. In fact, 2 Chronicles 31:20 tells us, “Everything Hezekiah did while he was king of Judah, including what he did for the temple in Jerusalem, was right and good. He was a successful king, because he obeyed the Lord God with all his heart” (CEV).

However, there was a point in Hezekiah’s life where we are told, “…Hezekiah did not repay according to the favor shown him, for his heart was lifted up; therefore wrath was looming over him and over Judah and Jerusalem” (see 2 Chronicles 32:24-26). These examples should prompt us to remember the message of 1 Peter 5:6, for “Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18 CSB).

(1) hubris. (n.d.) Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014. (1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014). Retrieved April 9 2024 from https://www.thefreedictionary.com/hubris

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6).

In commenting on this passage, one source encourages us to adopt a vertical perspective in our engagements with others…

“We often worry about our position and status, hoping to get proper recognition for what we do. But Peter advises us to remember that God’s recognition counts more than human praise. God is able and willing to bless us according to his timing. Humbly obey God regardless of present circumstances, and in his good time-either in this life or in the next-he will honor you” ₍₁₎

As we might expect, this reference to “…the mighty hand of God” offers a symbolic representation of God’s power and authority. The following author analyzes this descriptive imagery and provides a contemporary application…

“The phrase the mighty hand of God is common in the Old Testament; and it is most often used in connection with the deliverance which God wrought for his people when he brought them out of Egypt. ‘With a strong hand,’ said Moses, ‘the Lord has brought you out of Egypt’ (Exo_13:9). ‘Thou hast only begun to show thy servant thy greatness, and thy mighty hand’ (Deu_3:24). God brought his people forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand (Deu_9:26).

The idea is that God’s mighty hand is on the destiny of his people, if they will humbly and faithfully accept his guidance. After all the varied experiences of life, Joseph could say to the brothers who had once sought to eliminate him: ‘As for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good’ (Gen_50:20). The Christian never resents the experiences of life and never rebels against them, because he knows that the mighty hand of God is on the tiller of his life and that he has a destiny for him.” ₍₂₎

Those who willingly accept the humbling experiences God sends their way can rest in this assurance: the same mighty hand that allowed those circumstances will exalt them in due time as well. This passage also draws our attention to the Apostle Paul’s counsel in Romans 12:3…

“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you” (NIV).

This portion of Scripture encourages us to maintain a humble, yet accurate perspective of ourselves, neither underestimating nor overestimating our God-given abilities. Instead, we should prayerfully assess our lives in a sober manner, acknowledging and giving thanks to God for the talents, skills, abilities, and opportunities He has graciously provided.

(1) Life Application Study Bible NKJV [1 Peter 5:6] Copyright © 1988, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1996, 2004 by Tyndale House Publishers Inc., all rights reserved.

(1) Barclay, William. William Barclay’s Daily Study Bible, The Laws Of The Christian Life (1) (1Pe_5:6-11).

“In the same way, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. (1 Peter 5:5 NET).

 “Pride” is a word that carries a positive or negative connotation depending on its context. For instance, “pride” may refer to the sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that accompanies a job well done. However, the destructive form of pride referenced here involves those who possess an inflated self-opinion or those who look down upon others, often with contempt. This form of pride may also reflect the egotistical bragging and empty bravado that characterizes a sense of arrogance, self-importance, and condescension.

The Amplified Bible offers an instructive and revealing translation of this passage…

“For God sets Himself against the proud (the insolent, the overbearing, the disdainful, the presumptuous, the boastful)—[and He opposes, frustrates, and defeats them], but gives grace (favor, blessing) to the humble.”

People often have a negative view of those who exhibit these characteristics because they are frequently perceived as dismissive, patronizing, or condescending. But the insight given to us here in 1 Peter 5:5 is even more disconcerting, for we are told that God resists (CSB), or opposes (ESV) the proud. Proverbs 3:34 and James 4:6 offer similar warnings. Therefore, it is extremely unwise to adopt an attitude that sets us in opposition to God Himself.

Since pride reflects a presumptuous sense of self-worth, it is diametrically opposed to God’s grace. For instance, Proverbs 25:27 tells us: “Just as it is harmful to eat too much honey, so also it is bad for men to think about all the honors they deserve!” (TLB). In addition to that passage, the Biblical books of Psalms and Proverbs have more to say regarding this characteristic…

“Pride leads to arguments; be humble, take advice, and become wise” (Proverbs 13:10 TLB).

“Everyone proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Though they join forces, none will go unpunished” (Proverbs 16:5).

“I will not tolerate anyone who secretly slanders his neighbors; I will not permit conceit and pride” (Psalms 101:5 TLB).

Another expression of pride also appears in a Biblical list of seven things God hates…

“These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren” (Proverbs 6:16-19).

In light of these admonitions, we should be diligent to guard against this destructive characteristic.

“Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble'” (1 Peter 5:5 ESV).

The following definitions can help us understand and apply this reference to humility from 1 Peter 5:5. For instance, humility can be defined as…

1. The quality or condition of being humble. ₍₁₎
2. A freedom from arrogance that grows out of the recognition that all that we have and are comes from God. ₍₂₎

In considering these definitions, it’s important to recognize that the Biblical concept of humility differs from that of humiliation. Humiliation involves an action that elicits a sense of shame, disgrace, or dishonor, particularly when witnessed by others. On the other hand, humility is a positive personal characteristic that involves courtesy, respect, and a modest self-opinion.

Humility embodies an attitude that stands in contrast to such negative qualities as conceit, arrogance, and pride. For example, a humble person is someone who refrains from bragging about his or her identity or accomplishments. Instead, he or she understands that every talent, skill, ability, and possession represents a divine gift from God.

We should also consider this unusual reference to “clothing ourselves” with humility. This descriptive phrase encourages us to “put on” the virtue of humility as part of our daily lives, much as a modern-day server might put on an apron. Jesus was someone who led by example in this area as we see in the following excerpt from the Gospel of John…

“Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel he had around him” (John 13:3-5 NLT).

This helped lead Paul the Apostle to the following conclusion from the Biblical book of Philippians…

“In your lives you must think and act like Christ Jesus. Christ himself was like God in everything. But he did not think that being equal with God was something to be used for his own benefit. But he gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born as a man and became like a servant. And when he was living as a man, he humbled himself and was fully obedient to God, even when that caused his death—death on a cross” (Philippians 2:5-8 NCV).

(1) “Humility.” The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved. Accessed 12 April, 2024 from https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=humility

(2) “Humility.” Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Dictionary. General Editor Ronald F. Youngblood, Copyright © 1986, 1995 by Thomas Nelson Publishers.

“Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble'” (1 Peter 5:5).

A quick examination of this passage reveals a noticeable similarity between this portion of Scripture and another Biblical epistle. For instance, compare our text from 1 Peter 5:5 with the following passage from James 4:6-7…

“…Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ …Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith…” (1 Peter 5:5, 8-9).

“But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:6-7).

When two divinely inspired authors use similar imagery in their letters (as we see in the passages quoted above), we would do well to pay attention to their guidance.

So, having already addressed pastoral leaders in the opening verses of this chapter, the Apostle Peter turned his attention to other members of the Christian community here in verse five. Just as congregational leaders are accountable for their actions, individual church members are also entrusted with a responsibility: “be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility.”

It’s also interesting to note that Peter targeted the youth demographic in this exhortation. While the gift of youth offers many opportunities, those opportunities often present many hidden risks. Matthew Henry, a prominent commentator from the 18th century, acknowledged this reality in his era when he wrote, “…many young people, when setting out in the world, think of nothing but prosperity and pleasure, and never dream of trouble.” ₍₁₎

We should also remember that there are many individuals who might try to exploit young people in various ways. However, a youth who accepts this counsel from 1 Peter 5:5 and submits to a more-experienced elder may avoid such dangers.

Finally, this passage highlights an attitude of mutual submission that should exist among the members of God’s household. If the elders of the church are called to maintain an attitude of submission, then the same is equally true of others within a congregation. Thus, an attitude of humility and respectful submission should characterize our interactions with one another.

(1) Henry, Matthew. “Concise Commentary on Genesis 37”. “Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible”. https://www.studylight.org/ commentaries/ eng/ mhn/ genesis-37.html.1706.

“and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away” (1 Peter 5:4).

Unlike the royal crown of a monarch, the crown referenced in 1 Peter 5:4 is one that was bestowed upon a first-century athlete. Thus, the “crown” mentioned here is synonymous with “...the wreath or garland which was given as a prize to victors in public games.” ₍₁₎

The garlands awarded to the winners of these ancient athletic contests varied in style and design depending on the region. In some areas, these wreaths were crafted from evergreens such as pine. Other regions used olive, laurel, grape, and apple leaves, or even herbs such as parsley. But no matter what materials composed these ancient crowns, they all had something in common- they eventually faded away.

One source compares these temporal rewards with the crown of glory mentioned here in 1 Peter 5:4…

“The Greek word translated ‘crown’ referred to a crown of victory in the Greek athletic games, a crown given for military valor, or a festal garland worn at marriage feasts. Here it is the reward given to faithful shepherds of the flock of God… The crown given to victors in either athletics or war was made of oak or ivy leaves, the festal garlands of the marriage feast, of flowers. These would wither and fade. But the victor’s crown which the Lord Jesus will give His faithful under-shepherds will never wither or fade.” ₍₂₎

In addition to the crown referenced here in 1 Peter 5:4, the Scriptures identify several other crowns that are associated with the rewards of heaven. These include…

• An imperishable crown. This crown is distributed to those who exhibit the God-honoring qualities of temperance, discipline, or self-control (1 Corinthians 9:25, compare with Galatians 5:23).
• A crown of rejoicing. This crown is given to those who introduce Christ to others and nurture their spiritual growth (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20).
• A crown of righteousness. The crown of righteousness is distributed to “…all who eagerly look forward to his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8 NLT).
• A crown of life. Those who patiently endure through the temptations and trials of life are the recipients of the crown of life (James 1:12, Revelation.2:10).

Another commentary completes our look at this passage in the context of pastoral ministry…

“An elder’s work involves a tremendous expenditure of physical and emotional energy. He must sympathize, counsel, reprove, rebuke, teach, discipline, and warn. At times it may seem a thankless task. But a special reward is promised to the faithful elder. When the Chief Shepherd appears, he will receive an unfading crown of glory.” ₍₃₎

(1) G4735 stephanos Thayer’s Greek Definitions https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4735/kjv/tr/0-1/

(2) Kenneth S. Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament “The Responsibilities of Elders (1Pe_5:1-5a)” Copyright © 1942-55 by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

(3) William Macdonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary Edited by Arthur Farstad, Thomas Nelson Publishers [pg. 2280]

“not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3).

A closer look at the word “example” offers some additional insight into Peter’s counsel from this passage. In the original language of this verse, the word translated “example” refers to an impact that creates an impression upon something else. ₍₁₎ It can also refer to a pattern or model for making copies. So just as a machine tool leaves an impression upon a piece of leather or metal, a good pastoral leader should make the right kind of imprint for Christ.

Of course, the same is true for anyone who follows Jesus. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that there will likely be some who reject our good example, no matter how closely we seek to align with Christ. This should not be surprising, for there were some who responded to Jesus in a similar manner…

“At this point many of [Jesus’] disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, ‘Are you also going to leave?’ Simon Peter replied, ‘Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God'” (John 6:66-69 NLT).

Therefore, we should seek God’s empowerment to set the right example as we trust Him to bring positive fruit from our influence in others’ lives. Paul the Apostle referenced this idea in several of his Biblical epistles, and one of the best-known of those references comes to us from the book of 1 Corinthians….

“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1).

As imperfect human beings, we often provide others with examples to follow as well as examples to avoid. The following collage of Paul’s teachings on this subject should encourage us to persevere in setting the right example for others…

“…be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity… in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility… The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you” (1 Timothy 4:12, Titus 2:7, Philippians 4:9).

(1) G5179 tupos Strong’s Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?t=kjv&strongs=g5179

“nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock;” (1 Peter 5:3).

The Gospel of Mark records an interaction between Jesus and His disciples that relates to our passage from 1 Peter 5:3…

“So Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant'” (Mark 10:42-43 NLT).

1 Peter 5:3 calls our attention to Jesus’ counsel from this passage and the alternative mindset that should exist for leaders within His church. In a secular world where it is not unusual to encounter those who lead by threat, coercion, or intimidation, God-honoring ministers should not lord over those who have been entrusted to their care. For instance, the New Testament epistle of 3 John provides us with an example to avoid…

“I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will have nothing to do with us. So if I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, gossiping maliciously about us. Not satisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church. Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God” (3 John 1:9-11 NIV).

So it seems that Diotrephes held a position of authority within the church, as evidenced by his ability to excommunicate those who disagreed with him. In addition, it appears that he was a rather controlling person. We can also say that Diotrephes sought to be acknowledged as a prominent figure within his fellowship, since we are told that he loved to be first among others.

Unfortunately, Diotrephes added to that list of negative characteristics by spreading malicious gossip. And if that wasn’t enough to manipulate others into compliance, he was not above leveraging his position to enforce his agenda: “…He not only refuses to welcome fellow believers, but he even stops those who want to do so and expels them from the church” (CEB).

In light of this, we would be wise to watch for these character traits and avoid those leaders who adopt them. As one commentator observes, “If a man considers the church as his own, then he is indeed likely to rule in an improper manner.” ₍₁₎

(1) E. M. Zerr, Bible Commentary, 1 Peter (Marion, Indiana: Cogdill Foundation, 1954), p. 266. Quoted in Coffman, James Burton. “Commentary on 1 Peter 4”. “Coffman’s Commentaries on the Bible”. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bcc/1-peter-5.html. Abilene Christian University Press, Abilene, Texas, USA. 1983-1999.