First Letter of Peter 5

¹ Now I have something to tell your elders: I am an elder myself, and a witness to the sufferings of Christ, and with you I have a share in the glory that is to be revealed.

² Be the shepherds of the flock of God that is entrusted to you: watch over it, not simply as a duty but gladly, because God wants it; not for sordid money, but because you are eager to do it.

³ Never be a dictator over any group that is put in your charge, but be an example that the whole flock can follow.

⁴ When the chief shepherd appears, you will be given the crown of unfading glory.

⁵ To the rest of you I say: do what the elders tell you, and all wrap yourselves in humility to be servants of each other, because God refuses the proud and will always favour the humble.[*a]

⁶ Bow down, then, before the power of God now, and he will raise you up on the appointed day;

⁷ unload all your worries on to him,[*b] since he is looking after you.

⁸ Be calm but vigilant, because your enemy the devil is prowling round like a roaring lion, looking for someone to eat.

⁹ Stand up to him, strong in faith and in the knowledge that your brothers all over the world are suffering the same things.

¹⁰ You will have to suffer only for a little while: the God of all grace who called you to eternal glory in Christ will see that all is well again: he will confirm, strengthen and support you.

¹¹ His power lasts for ever and ever. Amen.

¹² I write these few words to you through Silvanus, who is a brother I know I can trust, to encourage you never to let go this true grace of God to which I bear witness.

¹³ Your sister in Babylon, who is with you among the chosen, sends you greetings; so does my son, Mark.

¹⁴ Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to you all who are in Christ.