And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

1 PETER 5:4KJV
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1 Peter 5:4 (KJV)

What does 1 Peter 5:4 mean?

1 Peter 5:4 describes how, when Jesus—called the "chief Shepherd"—returns, those who have faithfully served will receive a lasting reward described as a "crown of glory" that never fades. The verse promises a special, unfading honor from Christ to those who lead and care for others well.

Peter is writing to church leaders, encouraging them to shepherd God’s people with care and humility. The verse points to Jesus’ future return and assures these leaders that their faithful service will be recognized by Christ himself, not with a temporary reward, but with an everlasting one.

The Greek behind 1 Peter 5:4

  • Shepherd (ποιμήν, poimēn): This word means "shepherd" and here refers specifically to Jesus as the ultimate leader and caretaker of God's people, above all human leaders.
  • Crown (στέφανος, stephanos): The Greek word often refers to a wreath given to victors in athletic contests. In this context, it pictures a reward of honor and victory, but one that is spiritual and eternal, not just earthly.
  • Glory (δόξα, doxa): This word means "honor" or "splendor." The "crown of glory" suggests a reward that is not just visible recognition, but a share in Christ’s own honor and greatness.
  • Away (ἀμαράντινος, amarantinos): The phrase "fadeth not away" uses a word that means "unfading" or "imperishable," emphasizing that this reward is permanent, unlike earthly honors that eventually fade.

Why 1 Peter 5:4 matters

  • 1 Peter 5:4 clarifies that the ultimate recognition for spiritual leadership comes from Jesus, not from people, and it is eternal rather than temporary.
  • The verse connects the work of church leaders directly to Christ’s own role as the chief Shepherd, highlighting both responsibility and encouragement.
  • By describing the reward as "unfading," Peter contrasts it with the short-lived honors of this world, reminding readers of the lasting value of serving faithfully.

Where else these words appear

“receive” Greek G2865 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 25:27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.
  • Ephesians 6:8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.
  • Hebrews 11:19 Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

“crown” Greek G4735 · used in 18 verses

  • Matthew 27:29 And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!
  • Philippians 4:1 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.
  • Revelation 4:4 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.

“appear” Greek G5319 · used in 43 verses

  • Mark 4:22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
  • 2 Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: