Study Desk

To the Elders and the Flock

To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder^(a) and a witness^(b) of Christ's sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed:^(c)

Be shepherds of God's flock^(d) that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be;^(e) not pursuing dishonest gain,^(f) but eager to serve;

not lording it over^(g) those entrusted to you, but being examples^(h) to the flock.

And when the Chief Shepherd⁽ⁱ⁾ appears, you will receive the crown of glory^(j) that will never fade away.^(k)

In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves^(l) to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility^(m) toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble."^[a](n)

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.^(o)

Cast all your anxiety on him^(p) because he cares for you.^(q)

Be alert and of sober mind.^(r) Your enemy the devil prowls around^(s) like a roaring lion^(t) looking for someone to devour.

Resist him,^(u) standing firm in the faith,^(v) because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.^(w)

And the God of all grace, who called you^(x) to his eternal glory^(y) in Christ, after you have suffered a little while,^(z) will himself restore you and make you strong,^(aa) firm and steadfast.

To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.^(ab)

With the help of Silas,^[b](ac) whom I regard as a faithful brother, I have written to you briefly,^(ad) encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it.^(ae)

She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings, and so does my son Mark.^(af)

Greet one another with a kiss of love.^(ag) Peace^(ah) to all of you who are in Christ.