1 Peter 5

Counsel to the Adults (5:1–4)

1 Being an elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ and who am also a partaker with you of the future glory that shall be revealed, I call upon the elders among you: 2 Feed the flock of God in your midst, watching over them not by compulsion but voluntarily, as God has instructed; and not for shameful money but eagerly; 3 and not lording over those entrusted to you but by being examples to the flock. 4 And when the High Shepherd shall appear, you will receive a crown of glory that shall never fade or wither away.

Counsel to Youth (5:5a)

5 In the same spirit, youth, stand arrayed behind your leaders.

Counsel to All (5:5b–11)

And all of you, sustaining one another, be robed with humility, for “God is arranged in battle to stand against the proud, but gives grace to the humble” [Prov. 3:34 LXX]. 6 So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God so that he may exalt you at the final judgment. 7 “Cast all your cares and worries upon him” [Ps. 54:23 LXX], for he cares for you. 8 Be alert and watchful, for the devil, your enemy, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, being firm in the covenant, knowing that the same sufferings are being foisted upon all your brothers and sisters throughout the world. 10 But the very God of every gift, who has called us into his eternal glory in Christ after we have suffered for a brief time, will perfectly and firmly affix, strengthen, and be the solid foundation rock for all of us. 11 In him is strength into the eternities. Amen.

Closing Salutation (5:12–14)

12 I have written these few words to you with the help of my scribe Silvanus, a faithful brother whom I esteem. I exhort and bear witness that this gift of God is true. Stand fast in it. 13 She who is my co-elect in Babylon, along with my son Mark, send you best wishes. 14 Greet each other with an expression of sincere Christian affection. Peace be with all of you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.