King James Version
What Does 1 Peter 5:4 Mean?
“And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”
Context
2
Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; which: or, as much as in you is
3
Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. being lords over: or, overruling
4
And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
5
Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
6
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **And when the chief Shepherd shall appear.**—Or, *And at the chief Shepherd’s appearing.* The “and” treats it as a simple natural consequence of acting as just indicated. The beautiful word for “chief Shepherd” seems to have been invented by St. Peter, and it has been apparently imitated in Hebrews 13:20. How could an office be more honoured than by speaking of Christ as the chief bearer of that office?
“**A crown of glory that fadeth not away.**—It might perhaps be more closely, though less beautifully, represented by *the glorious crown of amaranth, *or *the amaranthine crown of glory.* Amaranth is the name of a flower which, like our immortelles, does not lose its colour or form. St. Peter immediately adds “of glory,” lest we should think too literally of the wreath of immortelles.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Peter. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Peter 5:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Peter 5:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge