About the Elders

1Therefore, as a fellow elder and witnessa to the sufferings of the •Messiah and also a participant in the glory about to be revealed,b I exhort the elders among you: 2Shepherd God’s flock among you,c not overseeingd out of compulsion but freely, according to God’s will;e not for the money but eagerly; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the chief Shepherdf appears, you will receive the unfading crowng of glory.

5In the same way, you younger men, be subject to the elders. And all of you clothe yourselves withh humility toward one another, because

God resists the proud

but gives grace to the humble.i, j

6Humblek yourselves, therefore, under the mighty handl of God, so that He may exalt you at the proper time,m 7casting all your care on Him, because He cares about you.n

Conclusion

8Be serious!o Be alert!p Your adversary the Devilq is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour. 9Resist himr and be firm in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are being experienced by your fellow believers throughout the world.

10Now the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glorys in Christ Jesus, will personallyt restore, establish, strengthen, and support you after you have suffered a little.u 11The dominionv belongs to Him forever.w •Amen.

12I have written you this brief letter through Silvanusx, y (I know him to be a faithful brother) to encourage you and to testify that this is the true grace of God. Take your stand in it! 13The church in Babylon,z, aa also chosen, sends you greetings, as does Mark, my son. 14Greet one another with a kiss of love.ab Peaceac to all of you who are in Christ.ad