I grew up hearing I Peter 5:6 repeatedly. We even sang a song at church that was taken from this verse. I have read the verse countless times. It is therefore embarrassing for me to admit that only now have I figured out the context.
Peter, after giving instructions to elders, gave instructions to the young. They were to subject themselves to the elders and not give into pride. Then, if they humbled themselves, they would be exalted in due time. It was about the young not jumping the gun into church leadership.
Perhaps I only noticed this now, as I am getting older, because I didn't want to hear the message. Perhaps it is simply evidence that I definitely was not ready to be an elder. But I think the message is important. Too often the young (myself included when I was young), are impatient for change and want to push issues before the appropriate time. The youthful enthusiasm is good, and an important part of the church. The wise elder will listen attentively to the issues of the young. But, that enthusiasm also frequently leads to the young not really thinking things through in their decision-making. Also, unfortunately, it is the more "confident" young people who make the biggest splashes. It is also the most "confident" who are the most prideful. Assuming church leadership is selected well, these are not the individuals who will become elders, unless they also humble themselves under the mighty hand of God so that He will exalt them in due time.
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