 1 I exhort the elders who are among you. I also am an elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed. 2 Feed the flock of God that is among you. Take responsibility for it, not by constraint, but willingly. Not for filthy gain+ but from a ready mind. 3 Do not be like lords over God's heritage, but be examples to the flock. 4 When the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of glory that does not fade away. 5 Likewise, you younger ones submit yourselves to the elders. Yes, all of you should be subject to one another and be clothed with humility. For God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. Proverbs 3:34 6 Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God so that He may exalt you in due time. 7 Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 8 Be sober. Be vigilant. Because your adversary the devil walks around+ like+ a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. 9 Resist the devil and be steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your family+ that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace who has called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, will, after you have suffered a while, make you perfect~. He will establish+, strengthen, and settle you. 11 To God be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 12 By the hand of Silvanus, a faithful brother to you, as I deduce+, so I have written briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand. 13 The assembly at Babylon who were elected~ together with you, greet+ you. So does my son Mark. 14 Greet one another with a kiss of true love. Peace be with you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
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