(a) Highlight Peter's teaching on humility. [9 marks] (b) Identify any three qualities of a humble person.

(a) Peter's teaching on humility (1 Peter 5:1-7)

Peter, writing as a fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, gave instructions promoting humility in the Christian community:

• To the elders (leaders): He exhorted them to tend (shepherd) the flock of God that was in their charge, not by constraint but willingly; not for shameful gain but eagerly; and not as domineering over those in their charge (not lording it over God's heritage), but being examples to the flock.
• He promised that when the chief Shepherd (Christ) is manifested, they will receive the unfading crown of glory.
• To the younger: "Likewise you that are younger be subject to the elders."
• To all: "Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
• He urged them to humble themselves under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt them.
• He assured them to cast all their anxieties on God, for He cares for them.

The essence of Peter's teaching is that both leaders and members should serve willingly and be lowly-minded, submitting to one another and to God, who honours the humble but resists the proud.

(b) Three qualities of a humble person

1. Submissiveness and obedience: he willingly submits to God and respects lawful authority.
2. Meekness and gentleness: he is not proud, boastful or domineering, but modest in speech and conduct.
3. Selflessness and a servant heart: he serves others willingly, puts others before himself, and is content rather than greedy for gain or recognition.