Tending the Flock of God

5 I exhort the elders who are among you, as one who is also an elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ as well as a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: ² Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, take care of them, not by constraint, but willingly, not for dishonest gain, but eagerly. ³ Do not lord over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock. ⁴ And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of glory that will not fade away.

⁵ Likewise you younger ones, submit yourselves to the elders. Yes, all of you be submissive one to another and clothe yourselves with humility, because

⁶ Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time. ⁷ Cast all your care upon Him, because He cares for you.

⁸ Be sober and watchful, because your adversary the devil walks around as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. ⁹ Resist him firmly in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

¹⁰ But after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory through Christ Jesus, will restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. ¹¹ To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

¹² With the help of Silas, whom I consider to be a faithful brother to you, I have written briefly, exhorting you and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand.

¹³ The church that is at Babylon, elect together with you, greets you, and so does Mark, my son. ¹⁴ Greet one another with a kiss of love.

Peace be with all you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.