Instructions to Elders and the Flock

1 I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a sharer of the glory about to be revealed:
2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, overseeing not by compulsion but willingly according to God; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;
3 not as lording over those allotted to you, but becoming examples to the flock.
4 And when the Chief Shepherd is manifested, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Humility and Watchfulness

5 Likewise, younger ones, be subject to the elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you in the proper time,
7 casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.
8 Be sober, be watchful. Your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour.
9 Resist him, firm in the faith, knowing that the same kinds of sufferings are being accomplished in your brotherhood that is in the world.
10 And the God of all grace, the One who called you into His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, He Himself will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
11 To Him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

12 Through Silvanus, the faithful brother, as I account him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God; stand firm in it.
13 She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, greets you; and Mark, my son.
14 Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.