Tending the Flock of God

5 Now as an elder myself and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory to be revealed, I exhort the elders among you^{(A) 2} to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight,^[a] not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it,^[b] not for sordid gain but eagerly.^{(B) 3} Do not lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock.^{(C) 4} And when the chief shepherd appears, you will win the crown of glory that never fades away.^{(D) 5} In the same way, you who are younger must be subject to the elders.^[c] And all of you must clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for

Final Greetings and Benediction

¹² Through Silvanus, whom I consider a faithful brother, I have written this short letter to encourage you and to testify that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.^{(A) 13} Your sister church^[a] in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, and so does my son Mark. ¹⁴ Greet one another with a kiss of love.

Peace to all of you who are in Christ.^[b](B)