Instructions to Elders

1The ancients therefore that are among you, I beseech who am myself also an ancient and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as also a partaker of that glory which is to be revealed in time to come: 2Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking care of it, not by constraint but willingly, according to God: not for filthy lucre's sake but voluntarily: 3Neither as lording it over the clergy but being made a pattern of the flock from the heart. 4And when the prince of pastors shall appear, you shall receive a never fading crown of glory.

Cast Your Cares on Him

5In like manner, ye young men, be subject to the ancients. And do you all insinuate humility one to another: for God resisteth the proud, but to the humble he giveth grace.

6Be you humbled therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in the time of visitation: 7Casting all your care upon him, for he hath care of you. 8Be sober and watch: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour. 9Whom resist ye, strong in faith: knowing that the same affliction befalls, your brethren who are in the world.

Benediction and Final Greetings

10But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little, will himself perfect you and confirm you and establish you. 11To him be glory and empire, for ever and ever. Amen.

12By Sylvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I think, I have written briefly: beseeching and testifying that this is the true grace of God, wherein you stand. 13The church that is in Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you. And so doth my son, Mark. 14Salute one another with a holy kiss. Grace be to all you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.