NOTES for Pe1 5:5

It is very rare to encounter an adequate reaction to the apostolic call to submission. Usually one of two extremes is observed: either a sharp protest in the name of "personal freedom," or an immediate search for some spiritual authority for unconditional submission to any decision of his. But the apostle Peter gives two clues for the right understanding of his words. First, the point is mutual submission, that is, that each should place the interests of the other above his own; in other words, mutual love. Second, he uses the remarkable word "humble-mindedness," in which humility and wisdom are joined together. This means that our wisdom is called to be humble, that is, not proud, not exalting itself over others. But it is also important that humility be wise, and not the self-abasement that is "worse than pride." Our submission to others does not remove our personal responsibility before God for our life.