Shepherd the Flock of God

1So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed:  2shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;  3not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.  4And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.  5Likewise, 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.”

6Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,  7casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.  8Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.  9Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.  10And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.  11To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

12By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.  13She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son.  14Greet one another with the kiss of love.

Peace to all of you who are in Christ.