1 Shepherd the Flock of God Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, asyourfellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed,
2 shepherd the flock of God among you, overseeing not under compulsion, but willingly, according to God; and not for dishonest gain, but with eagerness;
3 nor yet as lording it over 5:3Lit the allotments those allotted to you, but being examples to the flock.
4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading 5:4Lit wreath crown of glory.
5 You younger men, likewise, be subject toyourelders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud,but gives grace to the humble.
6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time,
7 casting all your anxiety onHim, because He cares for you.
8 Be of soberspirit, be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
9 5:9Lit Whom resist But resist him, firm in the faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished among your 5:9Or brotherhood brethren who are in the world.
10 And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, strengthen, confirm,andground you.
11 To Himbemight forever and ever. Amen.
12 Through Silvanus, our faithful brother as I regardhim, I have written to you briefly, exhorting and bearing witness that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it!
13 She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, andso doesmy son, Mark.
14 Greet one another with a kiss of love.Peace be to you all who are in Christ.