The diakonia of the elder according to 1 Peter

Abstract

In this article, the ministry of the elder is investigated according to 1 Peter 5:1–5 from the perspective of the usage of the diakon word group in 1 Peter. Firstly, the place of 1 Peter 5 in the context of the whole letter is examined. Then the connection between 1 Peter 5:1–4 and 1 Peter 4:7–11 is ascertained. That is followed by a detailed exegesis of 1 Peter 5:1–4. It is found that the immediate context (1 Peter 4), indicates that in 5:1–4, Peter describes the diakonia of the elders. Based on the research, guidelines are suggested for the diakonia of the elder according to 1 Peter.

Diakonia in the New Testament and a vision for a biblically based ministry plan

“…Peter connects the use of the gifts of the congregation to the fervent love for each other, 'using hospitality one to another without murmuring' (1 Pt 4:9; cf. Breed 2016b;Clowney 1988:169-188).…”

“…From the exegesis of 1 Peter 4 and 5, it has become clear (Breed 2016b) that the elders have a special διακονία in the congregation, namely overseeing and caring for the flock.…”