Now, I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker of the glory that is about to be revealed:
Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, watching over them, not out of compulsion but willingly, according to the will of God, and not being greedy for profit but eager to serve,
and not abusing your authority over those in your care, but being an example to the flock.
And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
In the same way, you who are younger, submit to the elders. And all of you must clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that he will exalt you at the proper time,
casting all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you.
Be clearheaded! Be watchful! Your opponent, the Devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
Stand firm against him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same kind of sufferings are being experienced by your fellow believers throughout the world.
And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who called you who are in union with Christ to his everlasting glory, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
To him be the dominion forever. Amen.
Final Greetings
Through Silvanus, whom I consider a faithful brother, I have written you this brief letter, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it.
The church that is in Babylon, who is chosen together with you, greets you, and so does my son Mark.
Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.