[1] Therefore, I have a request for the elders among you. (I ask this as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and as one who shares in the glory that is about to be revealed.) I urge the elders: [2] Like shepherds, tend the flock of God among you. Watch over it. Don’t shepherd because you must, but do it voluntarily for God. Don’t shepherd greedily, but do it eagerly. [3] Don’t shepherd by ruling over those entrusted to your care, but become examples to the flock. [4] And when the chief shepherd appears, you will receive an unfading crown of glory. [5] In the same way, I urge you who are younger: accept the authority of the elders. And everyone, clothe yourselves with humility toward each other. God stands against the proud, but he gives favor to the humble. [6] Therefore, humble yourselves under God’s power so that he may raise you up in the last day. [7] Throw all your anxiety onto him, because he cares about you. [8] Be clearheaded. Keep alert. Your accuser, the devil, is on the prowl like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. [9] Resist him, standing firm in the faith. Do so in the knowledge that your fellow believers are enduring the same suffering throughout the world. [10] After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, the one who called you into his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will himself restore, empower, strengthen, and establish you. [11] To him be power forever and always. Amen. [12] I have written and sent these few lines to you by Silvanus. I consider him to be a faithful brother. In these lines I have urged and affirmed that this is the genuine grace of God. Stand firm in it. [13] The fellow-elect church in Babylon greets you, and so does my son Mark. [14] Greet each other with the kiss of love. Peace to you all who are in Christ.
