Instructions to Elders

¹ As a fellow elder, a witness^* of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: ² Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; ³ not lording it over^* those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. ⁴ And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

Cast Your Cares on Him

⁵ Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another,^* because,

“God opposes the proud,

but gives grace to the humble.”

⁶ Humble yourselves,^* therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you. ⁷ Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

⁸ Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him, standing firm in your faith^* and in the knowledge that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering.

Benediction and Farewell

¹⁰ And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you. ¹¹ To Him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

¹² Through Silvanus, whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.

¹³ The church in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, as does my son Mark.

¹⁴ Greet one another with a kiss^* of love.

Peace to all of you who are in Christ.