Peter speaks first to the elders of the church. He himself was an elder. So, he understood the difficulties and challenges that they faced. He admonished them to oversee the church with humility. They were to rule with the consent of the people, not by force. They weren't to be lords over the flock. Rather, they were to lead by example. Peter knew that people are much more willing to follow a leader if he practices what he preaches. No one likes being commanded from a pedestal. Leaders should be on the same level as their people. They should live among them and be part of them. That way they can understand the struggles their people face. Peter tells the elders that when the chief Shepherd appears, they will receive an everlasting crown in reward for their labors.
Next, Peter speaks to those that are younger. He commands them to submit to their elders. And, all should be subject to each other. In this way, church life can flow smoothly. If everyone humbly submits to each other, God's blessing will be on the church. Because, God resists the proud, but He gives grace to the humble. We must also humble ourselves under the hand of God. If we do so, He will exalt us in eternity. I can't wait!
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