The phrase could be seen as a contrast to the elders (the older) and so speak simply to what posture the younger generation is to have in relation to the aged. It could also refer to those younger ones who are already distinguishing themselves to become tomorrow’s elders (shepherds) and so speak to the fact that these future leaders need today still to submit to their elders instead of following their own maturing heads. A third possibility is to understand the phrase to refer to all non-elders and so speak to how all lay people are to relate to clergy. Of the three options, the second is the preferable. As young people grow into leadership roles, it is to their benefit to learn to make their own decisions and practice working with the consequences. But as they do so within the parameters of God’s church, they need to recognize that God has appointed particular brothers to function as shepherds of his flock—and the younger are part of that flock.
5 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”