1 Peter 5

Instructions for Spiritual Leaders

1I appeal to your spiritual leaders. I make this appeal as a spiritual leader who also witnessed Christ’s sufferings and will share in the glory that will be revealed.

2Be shepherds over the flock God has entrusted to you. Watch over it as God does: Don’t do this because you have to, but because you want to. Don’t do it out of greed, but out of a desire to serve.

3Don’t be rulers over the people entrusted to you, but be examples for the flock to follow.

Instructions for Christians

4Then, when the chief shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

5Young people, in a similar way, place yourselves under the authority of spiritual leaders. Furthermore, all of you must serve each other with humility, because God opposes the arrogant but favors the humble.

6Be humbled by God’s power so that when the right time comes he will honor you.

7Turn all your anxiety over to God because he cares for you.

8Keep your mind clear, and be alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion as he looks for someone to devour.

9Be firm in the faith and resist him, knowing that other believers throughout the world are going through the same kind of suffering.

10God, who shows you his kindness  and who has called you through Christ Jesus to his eternal glory, will restore you, strengthen you, make you strong, and support you as you suffer for a little while.

Farewell

11Power belongs to him forever. Amen.

12I’ve written this short letter to you and I’m sending it by Silvanus, whom I regard as a faithful brother. I’ve written to encourage you and to testify that this is God’s genuine good will. Remain firmly established in it!

13Your sister church in Babylon, chosen by God, and my son Mark send you greetings.

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