Shepherds Under the Chief Shepherd

Elders are told to shepherd our Father's flock willingly, not for money and not by lording it over anyone. Everyone else is told to dress in humility and to throw their anxiety onto our Father, who cares. The devil prowls, but the suffering is brief and worldwide.

Chapter 5.

I urge the elders among you, as fellow elder, witness of Christ's sufferings, and sharer in the glory about to be revealed: Shepherd our Father's flock among you, watching over it—not forced but willing, as our Father wants; not for shameful profit but eager, not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. ^a

Likewise, younger ones, submit to elders. All of you, dress yourselves in humility toward each other, for our Father opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. So humble yourselves under our Father's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in the right time, casting all your anxiety on our Father, because he cares for you.

Stay sober and watchful; your adversary the devil roams like a roaring lion, hunting someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in faith, knowing your fellow believers worldwide endure the same suffering.

And our Father of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and ground you after brief suffering. To him be the dominion forever. Amen.

Through Silvanus, a faithful brother as I see him, I've written briefly—encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of our Father. Stand firm in it.

Final Greetings

She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. ^b Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.