Question 9
PETER’S TEACHING ON INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP ON HOW CHRISTIAN ELDERS SHOULD RELATE TO THEIR FOLLOWERS (1 PETER 5:1-11)
Observation
This question was less popular among the candidates. In the A part, most candidates answered this question from their own sociological perspective by preaching and giving sermons rather than answering the questions as outlined by Peter. The B part was better answered by the candidates in that they were able to identify ways youths can keep good interpersonal relationships with the elders. In the A part, Candidates were required to state that;
- Peter refers to Christian leaders as witnesses of the suffering of Christ and partakers of the glory that is to be revealed during his second coming.
- They should therefore look after the flock of Christ with tenderness.
- They should not regard their assignment as a burden rather they should discharge their duties willingly.
- Not for shameful material gain but eagerly.
- Not by being overbearing but serving as true example/ role model to the flock.
- They would reap their due reward in due course when the Lord comes.
- Leaders should humble themselves under the mighty hand of God for God to exalt them.
- They must be sober and watchful because Satan is roaring around looking for whom to destroy.
- They should resist Satan at all costs and be firm in their faith.
- Suffering is part of Christian life.
- God will reward them for their role.
- Love the brotherhood.
- Keep a clear conscience so that they can put to shame those who abuse them.
- He also admonished the younger ones in the church to be subject to the elders.
- According to Peter, Christians should clothe themselves with humility towards one another.
- Peter also advised Christians to resist the devil and he would flee from them/ they could resist the devil with their faith in Christ.
- Finally, they should stand firm in their faith, for the enemy was always seeking an opportunity to attack.